A comparative study of homoeopathic medicines arsenic album and selenium metallicum for de-addiction in Smokeless Tobacco (SLT)

Abstract

Smokeless Tobacco (SLT) addiction is a growing public health crisis, contributing to severe health risks, including oral cancers and cardiovascular diseases. Conventional cessation methods, such as nicotine replacement therapy and pharmacological interventions, often lead to side effects and low adherence, especially in resource-limited settings. This study explores the potential of homeopathic medicines Arsenic Album and Selenium Metallicum as natural and effective alternatives for tobacco de-addiction. A single-blind, non-randomized clinical study was conducted over nine months at Devs Homeopathic Hospital, involving 70 habitual smokeless tobacco users aged 20-40 years. Participants, divided into two groups, received either Arsenic Album (N=35) or Selenium Metallicum (N=35) in varying potencies. The Fagerstrom Nicotine Dependence Scale (FTND-ST) was used to assess addiction levels before and after treatment. Findings revealed significant improvements in tobacco dependence scores, with Arsenic Album demonstrating a higher complete cessation rate compared to Selenium Metallicum. Statistical analysis using the Chi-square test confirmed these results (p