Ayurveda Research Research Articles

Panchakarma fitness form for clinical practice and research in Ayurveda

Background: The Panchakarma Fitness Form is an essential tool in Ayurveda, used to assess a patient’s suitability for specific Panchakarma treatments. By evaluating Dashavidha Pareeksha, Sama-Nirama Pareeksha, assessment of Agni, assessment of Koshta, examination of vital parameters, medical history, and other relevant factors, this form ensures that treatment decisions are informed, ethical, and patient-centered. Objectives: To develop and implement a Panchakarma Fitness Form for evaluating patient fitness for Panchakarma therapies and to assess its effectiveness in enhancing treatment safety, personalization, and compliance with clinical and ethical standards over a five-year period. Methods: A comprehensive Panchakarma Fitness Form was designed, incorporating sections on classical advocation on fitness for different Panchakarma therapies, medical history, clinical examination of patient, allergies, medication, and lifestyle factors. The form was used in both routine healthcare and clinical research settings, with a particular emphasis on its role in screening for study eligibility. The implementation of the Panchakarma Fitness Form enhanced patient safety by identifying contraindications and optimizing treatment decisions. This form contributed to improved treatment efficacy by tailoring therapies to individual health conditions and supporting personalized care. In clinical research settings, the form facilitated participant selection, improving study integrity and data reliability. Conclusions: The Panchakarma Fitness Form is a valuable tool that supports safe, effective, and personalized Ayurvedic treatment. By systematically assessing patient readiness, it reduces risks, enhances treatment outcomes, and aids in legal and ethical compliance in both clinical practice and research. This form sets a standard for quality and safety in Ayurveda, supporting patient-centered and informed healthcare.

Review of research works done on Rajata Bhasma [Incinerated Silver] at Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar

Rajata a well-known metal known for its Medhya, Rasayana and Balya Karma. Rajata is cost effective compared to Swarna and possess similar properties to that of Swarna. Rajata Bhasma (RB) is a calcined silver compound widely used by practitioners of Ayurveda for various ailments like depletion of body elements, neurological disorders, muscular dystrophy, infertility, diabetes, various infectious conditions. Aim of the present study was to compile such available research works done on Rajata in the Department of Rasa Shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana (RS and BK), ITRA, Jamnagar and provide brief information about pharmaceutical, analytical, and pharmacological studies. Total five studies on Rajata Bhasma, which revalidated the impact of classical guidelines, safety issues, and therapeutic utilities, were screened from Department of RS and BK, Institute for Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar. All studies revealed that Rajata Bhasma is safe clinically, experimentally at Therapeutic Equivalent Dose (TED) levels as no toxic hazards were reported during the treatment period. The clinical efficacy of Rajata Bhasma has been evaluated in Female infertility, Depression (Avasada) and memory enhancing activity. conditions. Satisfactory responses with a decrease in the intensity of signs and symptoms were reported in all the studies. Though certain limitations were observed in these researches, the results can be considered as a lead for further well stratified studies covering larger population. No adverse effects were reported in any of these studies.

Review of research work done on Nishamalaki in type 2 Diabetes at institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar

Background: Nisha and Amalaki Churna are most commonly prescribed drugs used individually as well as in combination with other drugs in various diseases by Ayurvedic practitioners. The use of Nisha and Amalaki in Prameha is found in various classical texts, including Brihatrayees, Chakradatta, Bhaishajya Ratnavali among others. Diabetes is a major cause of health concern affecting around 10.5% of population. The most worrisome part is that its incidence is on the rise even in rural areas. Prameha (Madhumeha) wsr to Type 2 Diabetes) has adverse effects on many physiological processes and anatomical structures in the body (Saptadushya) and is considered as Mahagada. Aim of the present study was to compile such research works carried out on Nishamalaki at ITRA, Jamnagar and provide brief information about the studies. Material & methods: Total nine studies on Nishamalaki were screened from various PG departments of Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar. Results and Conclusion: All studies revealed that Nishamalaki reduces the clinical symptoms of Diabetes. The clinical efficacy has been evaluated in both type 1 (in modified form) and type 2 Diabetes. Satisfactory response with a decrease in the intensity of signs and symptoms was reported in all the studies. No adverse effects were reported in any of these studies.

Life profile of Chittattinkara N. Krishna Pillai Vaidyan: A genius and compassionate legend of Ayurveda

Abstract Shri Chittattinkara N. Krishna Pillai Vaidyan was an Ayurvedic physician of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, who started his career in 1948, which continued for nearly 63 years. From childhood onwards, he helped his father to prepare and dispense medicines. He started his clinical practice at his home, which was later developed into the “Lakshmi Narayana Ayurveda Research Center” to train students of Ayurveda. He traveled across the state to collect genuine drugs to prepare medicines authentically. He received the “Vaidyakalanidhi” degree in Ayurveda with top honors from the esteemed Government Ayurveda College in Thiruvananthapuram. He was also a qualified “Netravisharada” specializing in treating Netra Rogas (ophthalmology). He incorporated Rasa (minerals and metals) preparations in his practice and prepared Rasa drugs in his pharmacy with Puta pits (measurement of heat) and other necessary equipment. He was an expert in Nadipareeksha (pulse diagnosis) and diagnosed diseases using traditional Ayurvedic methods. He had mastery over classical Ayurvedic texts and literature, such as the Susrutha Samhita, Charaka Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya. As an eminent physician, he successfully treated numerous patients with conditions that modern medicine could not cure. He never charged consultation fees to his patients. He was a socially committed person and was one of the eminent personalities who uplifted the worthiness of Ayurveda throughout his lifetime.

Comparison of questionnaire and clinician-based assessment of Prakriti/body constitution in young adults: an observational study

Background: Ayurveda emphasizes a personalized medicine approach based on Prakriti (body constitution) assessment which involves morphological observation and detailed history of physiological, behavioural, and psychological attributes. In Ayurveda research, two commonly used prakriti questionnaires are developed by CSIR (Q1) and CCRAS (Q2). These questionnaires are presumed to have similar predictive capabilities, but no study has compared them with the clinician-based prakriti assessment method for suitability in clinical settings. This study aimed to compare Q1, Q2, and their agreement levels with the clinician-based prakriti assessment (CPA) method. Methods: This observational study was conducted from July 2022 to January 2023, involving adults of both sexes aged aged 18-35 years. Upon obtaining written informed consent, trained Ayurvedic clinicians assessed the prakriti of all participants using Q1, Q2 and CPA methods. Results: Out of 138 participants recruited, 67% were female. The mean±SD age for males and females was 27.80±4.43 and 26.58±4.56, respectively. Mixed prakriti types were more common than predominant types among participants. The CPA method substantially agrees with Q1 (Cohen’s kappa=0.75) and moderately agrees with Q2 (Cohen’s kappa=0.59). The positive predictive value ranges for Q1 and Q2 were (46.2-100%) and (48-100%), respectively. Conclusions: Q1 and Q2 are consistent with the CPA method, with Q1 showing better agreement. Further studies including other questionnaires is required to validate the results.

A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of nutraceuticals with special reference to Ahara Dravya (food articles) in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Different Aushadi (drugs) are indicated for Prameha (diabetes mellitus) in Ayurveda, with some serving as nutraceuticals. Still, their efficacy and safety need to be investigated. A systematic review will be conducted, including both published and relevant unpublished randomized controlled trials of selected nutraceuticals in diabetes mellitus. For the meta-analysis, only published studies will be considered. Searches will be executed in PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Shodhganga: A reservoir for Indian theses, Digital Helpline for Ayurveda Research Articles, and AYUSH Research Portal, along with dissertation and thesis works in the public domain, unpublished studies from websites of university/institution, as well as other possible sources. Two reviewers will independently select studies, extract data, and synthesize results. A third reviewer will address disagreement. Robinson Risk of Bias 2 tool will be used to evaluate bias. Meta-analysis of extracted data will be performed through Review Manager Web software focusing on fasting blood sugar levels and glycosylated hemoglobin and reported adverse events if any. The strength of the shreds of evidence and reliability will be analyzed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. Findings will be presented using appropriate statistical methodology and interpreted accordingly. This study will comprehensively assess the selected nutraceuticals in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), demonstrating their efficacy and safety in preventing and managing T2DM. The conclusion may be drawn based on the resultant outcome of the impact of selected nutraceuticals on T2DM. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024529448.

A protocol for an open-label randomized parallel group clinical study on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the combined effect of Agnideepan and Vyadhipratyaneek Chikitsa on the Fatty Liver Index (FLI) score in patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Secondary objectives include assessing the impact of combined chikitsa on Agni, lipid profile, body weight, waist circumference, and BMI. The study also aims to evaluate the effects of Vyadhi Pratyaneekachikitsa on changes in the FLI, lipid profile, body weight, waist circumference, BMI, and Agni, as well as the impact of Agni Deepanchikitsa on these parameters. Additionally, the quality of life of NAFLD patients will be evaluated using the SF36 questionnaire. Patients diagnosed with NAFLD will be selected from the outpatient department of CARICD, now renamed the Central Ayurveda Research Institute in New Delhi. Patient information sheets and consent forms will be provided to all willing participants. Screening will be conducted, and suitable patients will be randomized using a computer-generated chart. Trial formulations will be prescribed according to a set schedule, and patients will be called for follow-up visits accordingly. It is expected that the combined treatment of Agnideepan and Vyadhipratyaneek Chikitsa will be more effective than Vyadhipratyaneek Chikitsa alone in managing NAFLD. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of Ayurveda interventions in managing NAFLD through a disease-specific approach to precisely correct RaktavahaSrotodushti with Yakrt involvement and a general approach aimed at correcting metabolism. This dual approach highlights the role of multiple therapeutic targets in disease management tailored to patient-specific factor.

Anticipating tomorrow: Future trends and predictions in Ayurveda entrepreneurship

The ancient Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, is causing a ripple effect of entrepreneurial opportunities, where the application of traditional knowledge becomes synced with modern business strategies. This article informs readers about the future path and predictions of entrepreneurship in Ayurveda. Factors are discussed which would shape the future. This is being driven largely by the increasing consumer demand for products that are more natural and holistic in the health solutions they provide; the COVID-19 pandemic is an added impetus to the appeal of immunity-boosting Ayurvedic products. Innovations in the area of technological advancements are seen globally in general and within domains of digital health platforms and artificial intelligence, which is fundamentally changing the practice of Ayurveda from a person-centric healing approach to one that is available globally. Innovations are of prime importance in meeting contemporary customer expectations and increasing the impact of the treatment given through Ayurveda. Another important factor of support is from the governmental side through regulatory support, especially the Indian government. The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa, and Homeopathy) in India has provided every needed support in promoting research in Ayurveda, its standardization, and the quality and safety of the products. These situations are necessary regulatory frameworks that would build consumer trust and facilitate global acceptance. There is also a growing concern for sustainability and ethics in practices. There is, however, a sea change with the increasing number of entrepreneurs who have adopted eco-friendly sourcing methods and fair trade practices in an effort to make their business models indelibly associated with Ayurveda’s core principles: human beings living in harmony and perfect balance with the rest of nature. The Ayurvedic products and services market is expected to grow manifold with new product developments and growing demand from global consumers increasingly focusing on products broadly categorized under “holistic wellness.” Market expansion, hence, allows several opportunities for entrepreneurs to develop new markets and new product offerings that can cater to the perceived health needs of a broad customer base. With growth and development come challenges such as regulatory roadblocks, market competition, and consumer distrust, which are issues that need to be coped with for sustained business growth. This effectively closes the general outline for the future of Ayurveda entrepreneurship on a trajectory of growth that is both vibrant and sustainable, propelled and achieving completeness by the rainbow of innovation, consumer demand, and a pledge to wholeness in health and well-being. This suggests that Ayurveda entrepreneurship, through harnessing technological developments and reaching the standards of regulators, making sustainable practices its flagship in a world where health will become one of the most valued parts of every life, could fulfill the rich legacy handed down by this ancient science and at the same time serve meaningfully in the future of global healthcare. It provides detailed insight into an emerging area in Ayurveda entrepreneurship with great potential to bring about impactful change and growth in the years ahead.

Cardiothoracic surgeon who infused basic research in Ayurveda

Cardiothoracic surgeon who infused basic research in Ayurveda

Exploration of medicinal plants diversity of Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya

Abstract BACKGROUND: Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The district’s varied habitats create a multitude of niches for plant species to thrive, resulting in a rich array of flora that includes endemic, rare, endangered, and economically important medicinal plants. The purpose of the present study was to explore and document the medicinal plant diversity in the specific area of Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya. METHODS: For the exploration, the Medico Ethno-Botanical Survey (MEBS) team of Regional Ayurveda Research Institute (RARI), Itanagar, surveyed reserve forest ranges and nearby forest areas of Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya, following the guidelines of Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Ministry of Ayush, New Delhi. RESULTS: The study documented a total of 184 vascular plant species belonging to 161 genera in 72 families. Among all the collections, angiospermic families were dominant, comprising 65 of the total number. The family Fabaceae represented the highest number of plants (19), while the genus Solanum exhibited the highest number of species (6). Herbs accounted for the majority (51%) of the plants’ habits compared to other plant habits. The enlisted plants were cross-verified with Ayurvedic texts, revealing that 67 plant species were indexed in the Ayurvedic literature with their therapeutic effect, disease indication, and respective formulations. The IUCN status of the explored plants was also evaluated and presented in tabulated form. CONCLUSION: The floristic studies conducted in the study area provided valuable insights into the botanical wealth and species richness of the region, including medicinal plants of ayurvedic importance. The results and findings of this study can serve as baseline data for future research in the fields of ecological habitat analysis, phytochemical analysis, conservation, and cultivation of medicinal plants.

Management of varicose ulcer complicated with class II cellulitis through multimodal Ayurvedic interventions: A case report

Abstract This case report describes a 45-year-old female homemaker with a varicose ulcer complicated by class II cellulitis on her right lower limb. The ulcer, which appeared 26 days before presentation to OPD measured 7.5 cm × 3 cm × 0.2 cm and was located midway between the popliteal fossa and the ankle joint. It was associated with pain and serous discharge, and the surrounding skin exhibited erythema (redness), indicative of cellulitis. An emergency Doppler study of the venous system of the right lower limb was done, which ruled out deep venous thrombosis. As no relief was obtained from the external application of povidone-iodine ointment for about 2 weeks as suggested by conventional treatment, the patient came to the outpatient department of Regional Ayurveda Research Institute, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. A diagnosis of varicose ulcer complicated with class II cellulitis was established based on the clinical examination, relevant laboratory investigations, and detailed patient history. A comprehensive multimodal Ayurvedic treatment was administered, including internal medications like Panchanimbakwatha, Kaisoraguggulu, Triphalaguggulu, Punarnavadi Paneeya, and Madhusnuhi Rasayana for 20 days. Tablets Mahasudarshanam and AYUSH-64 were given for the first 2 weeks to manage cellulitis, which subsided during this period. The grading of venous insufficiency was C6 according to the “Clinical, Etiology, Anatomic, Pathophysiology classification” on day 1, improved to C1 by day 42 following treatment, indicating significant recovery. According to the “National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel Classification,” the ulcer was graded as Stage 3 on the day with significant improvement by day 42, where only mild discoloration of the overlying skin remained. The medications used for treatment had properties, such as Raktashodhaka (blood purifying), Krimighna (antimicrobial), Soolahara (anodyne), Vranashodhaka (wound-cleansing), Vranaropana (wound-healing), Sophahara (anti-inflammatory), and Pittahara (alleviate Pitta Dosha). In Ayurveda, venous ulcers can be considered as Siragranthijanyavran and cellulitis as Sirashotha. This case highlights the importance of timely intervention in the management of varicose ulcers complicated by cellulitis. The Ayurvedic therapeutic regimen demonstrated in this case offers an effective approach to managing complicated cellulitis in varicose ulcers, emphasizing the potential of Ayurveda in treating chronic conditions when addressed promptly.

A SYSTEMIC REVIEW ON THE MANAGEMENT OF ATTENTION-DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER IN CHILDREN

ADHD, a tantalising neurodevelopmental disorder documented in the DSM-5, fascinates with its distinctive characteristics: persistent inattention and hyperactivity. Beyond the surface, it intertwines with cognitive, social, and behavioural domains and affects 5.29% globally. Ayurvedic hints like Mano Vibhrama and Raja-Tama guna alignment illuminate a path, offering tridosha-shaman therapy, Medhya rasayana, and Panchakarma. A fusion of modern understanding and ancient wisdom paves the way for unravelling ADHD's enigma, promising novel solutions. This study aims to systematically review the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in Ayurveda. To conduct this study, Ayurveda research articles were obtained from PubMed, Google Scholar and AYUSH portal. A total of 40 studies were obtained, which underwent further screening processes to achieve the quality of inclusion criteria. A total of 14 articles were selected from different publications of the review. Out of 14 articles obtained, 7 studies (n=14) exclusively focused on shaman chikitsa with different single drugs and various drug formulations, 06 studies (n=14) focused on shaman and Panchakarma therapy, which includes shirodhara, abhyanga, matra basti, kashaya basti and nasya, 1 study (n=14) emphasised the importance of Panchakarma. Out of 14 clinical studies, 6 showed highly significant results, 1 showed comparatively insignificant results, and 7 showed moderately significant results. This study combines Ayurvedic insights with modern ADHD research, providing a promising opportunity for integrative treatment approaches. Further investigation of this intersection could reveal new dimensions in the fight against this complex neurodevelopmental disorder.

Ayurvedic Management of Schizophreniform Disorder

Schizophreniform disorder shares characteristic symptoms identical to that of schizophrenia, but is distinguished by its difference in duration. An 18-year-old male patient was admitted in the Government Ayurveda Research Institute for Mental Health and Hygiene, Kottakkal, with increased fear, reduced sleep and food intake, not mingling to other people for the past one month. In Ayurveda the psychotic features are enlisted under the term Unmada. Unmada is defined as perversion in Manas, Budhi, Samjnajnana, Smruthi, Bhakthi, Seela, Cheshta and Achara. Management of Unmada is done based on the predominance of Dosha involved in the pathogenesis. Sodhana, Samana and Satwavajaya are included in the management of Unmada. The patient was treated on an IP level with a combination of Ayurvedic internal medications and procedures for 45 days. The treatment protocol including Thalapothicil, Snehapana, Virechana, Vasti, Kashaya dhara, Nasya and Anjana were administered. PANSS was used to evaluate the symptoms before and after the treatment. There was a significant reduction in score from 86 to 30 after the intervention with improvement in the condition and insight. This case report shows the importance of the effective management of Schizophreniform disorder with Ayurvedic treatment procedures and medicines.

Role of Multidisciplinary Approach in Research Innovation in Ayurveda

Abstract: Ayurveda works on true health care rather just providing disease management only. In today’s scenario there is massive rise in scenario of antimicrobial body resistance and Ayurveda can provide the best approach of defending ourselves. But the Research in field of Ayurveda is at the level of infancy which can be matured up by multidisciplinary approach in field of Ayurveda. Ayurveda Research will always be at margins but by adopting few measures, it can go beyond the boundaries like new innovative therapeutic approaches which are not earlier mentioned in Samhitas must be worked on along with a joint effort of Ayurveda physicians, scientists from other areas, data managers and engineers for new instrumentation and tools development. The articles and ideas should come out from the published section to incorporate section and a cumulative effort to make that idea worldwide should be worked upon. This can bring out the outcome which is cost effective for public, and which is centrally focused on patient centric approach. The nano-technology in collaboration with Ayurveda can bring such wonderful outcomes in form of Ayurveda Medicinal products. The Genomics branch of science can help in resolving many hidden genetic concepts of Ayurveda like Matrujadi Shad Bhavas that can be helpful in treating many genetic diseases. This paper highlights the role of multidisciplinary approach in field of Ayurveda Research so that we can gain the future territories of Ayurveda.

Pharmaceutical preparation, standardization and comparative study of Tinduka Ghanavati and Kulattha Guda Avaleha in context of Shwasa Roga

Ayurveda is the world's oldest medical system, which dates back to the Rigveda period BC. 5000. All the medical systems of the world have received their form of organization and developmental inspiration from this, this is an undisputed proven fact. Ayurveda has been called the science of age. Charak has described Ayurveda as eternal. The medical science of Rasashastra is also included in Ayurveda medical science. Rasashastra has been revolutionary in Ayurveda since the 8th century. This has been said to reflect the results of Rasashastra during this period. The chemical drug manufacturing process was being used in the medical world since the 8th century. Since time immemorial, humans have been engaged in research for various purposes in various areas of their lives. Research in Ayurveda is necessary and mandatory. As the struggle and difficulties in a person's life increase along with progressing on the path of salvation, he is suffering from very painful diseases due to not following the health- protecting diet and practices recommended by the famous people. Among these diseases, respiratory disease also holds an important place. This is seen more in the human community. From the study of various texts, it was found that Tindukaghanvati and Kulathaguda Avaleha are effective drug combinations for respiratory diseases. Therefore, in this research work, the study of the above mentioned Yogas on respiratory diseases was considered. The presented research work is being presented before the scholars to reestablish the principles propounded by the Acharyas. The success of the effort depends on the consent of scholars.

Ayurvedic Management of Vataja Pratishyaya w.s.r to Allergic Rhinitis (AR)- A Single Case Study

Introduction- In Ayurveda it is said that Nasa is the gate way of Shirah. There are 31 and 18 Nasa roga described by Acharya Sushruta and Acharya Vagbhatta respectively. There are 5 types of Pratishyaya described by Acharya Sushruta and Acharya Vagbhatta i.e Vataja, Pittaja, Kaphaja, Raktaja and Sannipataja. The Vataja Pratishyaya can be correlated with Allergic Rhinitis (AR). The management of Vataja Pratishyaya can be done by various treatment methods like Gritapana, Nasya, Dhumapana, Swedana, Internal medication. Aim-To evaluate the effect of Vaspa Swedana(Steam inhalation), Anutaila Marsha Nasya (Nasal instillation) , Chitraka Haritaki Avaleha (Orally) in the management of Vataja Pratishyaya (Allergic Rhinitis). Materials and Methods: The subject approached to Shalakya Tantra ENT OPD of Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (I.T.R.A), Jamnagar, with the symptoms of Running nose, Excessive Sneezing, Nasal obstruction, Itching of the nasal cavity since 15 days was systemically reviewed and Vaspa Swedana (Steam Inhaltion), Anutaila Marsha Nasya (Nasal Instillation), Chitraka Haritaki Avaleha (Orally) were prescribed. Results: The adopted Ayurvedic treatment showed complete remission in the disease Vataja Pratishyaya (Allergic Rhinitis) within 28 days. Discussion: Allergic Rhinitis is an allergic inflammation of the nasal membrane. It occurs when an allergen like pollen, dust or animal dander is inhaled by a private with a sensitized system. The symptoms of Vata- Kaphaj Pratishaya resembles most of Rhinitis. In Ayurveda the concept of allergy is widely elaborated under the concept of Ama, concept of Asatmya & concept of Viruddha Aahara.Conclusion:.Here the treatment methods which are opted has Vata -Kapha Samana properties and has given a satisfactory result within 28 days.

Integrated Management with Ayurveda, Yoga and Counselling in Gender Dysphoria with Conduct Disorder

Sex is assigned at birth on the basis of external genitalia while gender is sense of being male, female or an alternative. It may or may not correspond to sex assigned at birth. In transgender, gender identity and gender expression do not match with sex assigned at birth. global prevalence of transgender is 0.3% to 0.5%. In DSM-5, gender dysphoria is the term used to refer the distress due to gender incongruence between sex assigned at birth and gender experienced. In Charakasamhita, Vyamisra linga is used to denote third gender. Even though there are few contexts to mentioning about diversities in attitude, feeling and behaviours connected with sex, no observations in Ayurveda on gender dysphoria. A 16 year old patient of assigned female gender admitted through the reference from children home authorities in the IPD of Government Ayurveda Research Institute for Mental Health and Hygiene (GARIM), Kottakkal, with disturbed sleep, increased fear, decreased food intake, increased anger, telling lies, stealing, reduced mingling with others, tendency of drawing male faces and smoking. Dress and hair style of the patient was like males. History of child abuse, running away from home and truancy were also reported. Patient was diagnosed with gender dysphoria and conduct disorder as per DSM-5 criteria which resemble Vatika Unmada with Pithanubandha. Sodhana and Samana modalities of treatments along with Yoga and counselling were given. Assessments done before and after treatments at GARIM and follow up after one month revealed remarkable relief from the symptoms presented. The Ayurvedic protocol was found effective and it highlights the scope of Ayurveda in managing gender dysphoria and associated conditions.

Pharmacognostical and Pharmaceutical Analysis of Sthaulyahara Ghana Vati: A Herbal Ayurveda Formulation for Obesity

Abstract Introduction: Sthaulyahara Ghana Vati (SHGV) is a polyherbal formulation, which is indicated in Sthualya (obesity) in Vaidhyasara sangraha. There are few clinical works carried out on this medicine, but no any researchers had evaluated this formulation for its quality control (QC) parameters. Pharmacopeia standards for this formulation are also not available till date. Aim: To evaluate SHGV through pharmacognostical, physiochemical parameters and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprinting. Materials and Methods: Preauthenticated raw drugs of SHGV were procured, and SHGV was prepared at pharmacy, Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA), Jamnagar. Organoleptic parameters and microscopic analysis of SHGV were carried out at the Pharmacognosy Department, ITRA, Jamnagar. Physiochemical analysis and HPTLC of SHGV were carried out at the Pharmaceutical Laboratory, ITRA, Jamnagar. Result: Microscopic features of SHGV were cross-checked with Ayurvedic pharmacopeia of India standards of individual ingredients, and it was found to have characteristics of all ingredients in it. In pharmaceutical parameters, pH value was 6.0, water-soluble extract was 16.2% w/w, methanol-soluble extract was 14.9% w/w, ash value was 11.8% w/w, and loss on drying was 3.9% w/w. HPTLC at 254 and 366 nm showed six and three spots, respectively. Conclusion: This study has generated preliminary data on pharmacognostical, pharmaceutical parameters, and HPTLC. This fingerprinting can be useful for future researchers to reproduce this formulation and to establish QC parameter of SHGV.

Significance of Statistic in Ayurveda Research

Significance of Statistic in Ayurveda Research

Complementary and Alternative Medicine/Therapy for Tobacco Cessation in India: A Secondary Analysis of GATS-1 and 2.

India has nearly 267 million adult tobacco users, with a slowly improving quitting rate. Among the many approaches to quitting the habit, such as counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, nicotine patch or gum, and prescribed allopathic medicines. Complementary and alternative medicine/therapy (CAM), a thousand-year-old practice in India, may also prove to be a potential method in tobacco cessation; however, there is scarce literature on the extent of use of CAM among tobacco users who attempt to quit the habit. Therefore, this study attempts to examine the potential of CAM as a strategy for tobacco control in India. We undertook a secondary analysis of the data from both rounds of the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS 2009 and 2016). The dependent variable included in the analysis was the use of traditional medicine as a method for quitting tobacco in three types of users-smokers, smokeless tobacco users, and dual users. The prevalence of CAM use was reported, and Chi-square test was applied to find the factors significantly associated with the use of CAM among tobacco users considering a P value of 0.05 to be statistically significant. The overall prevalence of traditional medicine use for GATS-1 was observed to be more among dual users (4%), while for GATS-2, it was highest among smokers (3%). For both rounds of the GATS survey, the use of traditional medicine was found to be higher among males, rural residents, users with no education or less than primary education, and the eastern region. CAM has a promising potential for supporting tobacco cessation provided a concerted effort is undertaken to standardize pharmacopeia and establish robust clinical evidence. In addition, there is a need to create awareness, build the capacity of healthcare providers, and foster academic-industrial research in indigenous Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH) systems.