Homeopathy and biotherapy in Bothrops asper envenomation

Resumo

Snake envenomation by Bothrops asper is a common problem affecting cattle raising and rural workers in farms across Latin America. Control of hemorrhage must often be ensured at the site of the accident, as medical care and antivenom therapy might not be available on the premises. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of homeopathic medicine Phosphorus 6cH, biotherapy Bothrops asper 6cH and a homeopathic formula on hemorrhage induced by B. asper envenomation. Groups of mice received the investigated treatments before and after envenomation (minimal hemorrhagic dose) and the diameter and intensity of hemorrhage were assessed. When administered before envenomation, all 3 treatments reduced the hemorrhage diameter; the best results were achieved with formula administered 14 days before envenomation and Phos 6cH 7 days before. Among the animals treated after envenomation, Phos 6cH in 4 doses/hour exhibited the best results in terms of hemorrhage diameter and intensity. We conclude that both homeopathy and biotherapy exhibit considerable potential as alternative treatment to reduce hemorrhage induced by B. asper venom.