Homeopathic Preparations of Quartz, Sulfur and Copper Sulfate Assessed by UV-Spectroscopy

[Celebration]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19474239?ordinalpos=6&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_DefaultReportPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum

In a blinded, randomized, controlled experiment homeopathic preparations of copper sulfate (CuSO(4); 11c-30c), quartz (SiO(2); 10c-30c, i.e. centesimal dilution steps) and sulfur (S; 11x-30x, i.e. decimal dilution steps) and controls (one-time succussed diluent) were investigated using UV-spectroscopy and tested for contamination by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The UV transmission for homeopathic preparations of CuSO(4) preparations was significantly lower than in controls. The transmission seemed to be also lower for both SiO(2) and S, but not significant. The mean effect size (95% confidence interval) was similar for the homeopathic preparations: CuSO(4) (pooled data) 0.0544% (0.0260-0.0827%), SiO(2) 0.0323% (-0.0064% to 0.0710%) and S 0.0281% (-0.0520% to 0.1082%). UV transmission values of homeopathic preparations had a significantly higher variability compared to controls. In none of the samples the concentration of any element analyzed by ICP-MS exceeded 100 ppb. Lower transmission of UV light may indicate that homeopathic preparations are less structured or more dynamic than their succussed pure solvent.

[lindisfarne]

1. I'll be more convinced when something similar is published in a peer-reviewed journal of physics.

This is the journal that published: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.

It's very easy to find what you want - you look harder to find ways to confirm the version of the hypothesis you believe in. Even if confirmed, exactly what greater variability, "more dynamic", "less structured" means for biological effects is unclear. Additionally, a small effect size might be statistically significant but have no impact practically.

Nonetheless, (if the research was done in a scientifically-valid way - I'd like to see comments from research physicists specializing in this technique), it's a step in the right direction.

Unfortunately, a lot of garbage has been generated, parading as scientific research in this area. So I'm skeptical. The field will greatly benefit when it cleans out the garbage, so that the legitimate, well-done research isn't negatively affected by it.

[rocktivity]

2. Mods, please lock

This thread is full of homeophobic remarks.

:silly:

[Why Syzygy]

4. *snarf*

[uppityperson]

3. Lower transmission of UV light may indicate that pickles are best served on Wednesday

"may"