Ayurvedic Research Articles

The Efficacy of Vibhithaki Ksharasutra in the Management of Nadivrana w.s.r Pilonidal Sinus

Pilonidal sinus (PNS) is a chronic disorder that occurs in the space between the buttocks (natal cleft). Men are more susceptible (because they have more hair) to pilonidal sinus than women. Excision, primary closure and reconstructive flap surgery are the most commonly used surgical techniques for this disease. However, there is a high risk of recurrence or wound infection after surgery. In addition, the patient needs a longer hospital stay, and the procedure is expensive. Acharya Susrutha (800 BC) considered this disease under Nadivrana (Shalyaja) and advocated a minimally invasive para surgical treatment namely the Kshara Sutra procedure. Susrutha mentioned Kshara dravyas like Apamarga, Palasha, Vasa, Vibhithaki, etc used in the preparation of the Ksharasutra. Here we selected Vibhitaki to prepare Kshara and Ksharasutra. Vibhithiki is cost-effective as it is easily available and the properties of this plant are favourable to Kshara qualities. The present case study deals with the efficacy of Vibhitaki Ksharasutra in the management of Nadivrana (pilonidal sinus).

The Efficacy of Vibhithaki Ksharasutra in the Management of Bhagandhara (Fistula In Ano) A Controlled Clinical Trail

Bhagandara (Fistula-In-Ano) is one of the Astamahagadha disease mentioned in Susrutha Samhitha, which is difficult to cure. Fistula-In-Ano is an abnormal communication between two epithelial-lined surfaces in the anorectal region. Various operative procedures (fistulectomy, etc.) often lead to complication ns like recurrence, incontinence of the anal sphincter, and other infections resulting from surgery. The Kshara Sutra is a parasurgical procedure that is found to be more effective in the management of fistulas in ano. The Apamarga Ksharasutra is widely used and is made up of Apamarga Kshara, Snuhi Kshira and Haridra. The preparation process for Apamarga Kshara can be difficult and time-consuming. If we turn to the classics, we find the reference to Vibhithaki, mentioned under Kshara Dravys, which are used to prepare Ksharasutra. Vibhitaki is cost-effective and easily available as it is a big tree. The properties of Vibhitaki are favourable to Kshara qualities The present clinical study deals with the efficacy of Vibhitaki and Apamarga Kshara Sutras in the management of Bhagandara.

Standardization of Pharmaceutical and Analytical Analysis of Chincha Kshara

Acharya Susrutha has narrated Kshara as one of the Upayantras, Anusastras, Agropaharaniya and one of the Upakrama of Vrana. Kshara is considered superior to all surgical and para surgical measures. Kṣharas are more effective than other methods of treatment, because they can be used externally as Pratisaraniya Kshara and internally as Paneeya Kshara. Because of varied applications standardization of the compound formulation is the need of the present era to set standards for maintaining the quality of the products. In the present study work is done on the pharmaceutical and analytical study of Chincha Kshara conducted in the department of Shalya Tantra under the post graduate programme is being presented. Here an attempt has been made to study Chincha Kshara Analytically and to develop fingerprints by organoleptic tests, physico-chemical parameters and Inductively Coupled Plasma - Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES).

Management of Traumatic Perforation of Tympanic Membrane Through Ayurveda

Traumatic tympanic perforations can occur due to various reasons, such as concussion, insertion of objects, temporal bone fractures, barotrauma, etc. Slap injuries are a common cause. Symptoms include sudden conductive deafness, pain and/or blood-stained discharge. Tinnitus and vertigo may complicate the condition. Appropriate and timely management is crucial to reduce the risk of permanent impairment, as studies indicate that spontaneous healing occurs within 1.5 to 3 months. While Ayurvedic texts don’t directly mention traumatic tympanic perforations, they can be categorized as ‘Agantuja Vrana’ (wounds caused by external factors). Ayurvedic treatment includes both local and systemic approaches. In this case study, medicines were used internally for 2 months: Sarivadi Vati, Lakshadi Guggul, Mahayograj Guggul, Gandha Taila capsules and a combination of Vatashamaka Churnas. This combination led to significant improvement; the perforation completely healed in 2 months. Thus, internal use of these drugs helped in the healing of traumatic perforations.

Ayurvedic Management of Anxiety Induced Insomnia

The extremely busy lifestyle has significantly impacted both the physical and mental health of individuals. Discussing mental health remains a stigma in society, profoundly affecting individuals' psyche. A male patient reported to the outpatient department with symptoms of anxiety, over thinking, disturbed sleep, body ache, fatigue, poor digestion, and frequent headaches for the past ten months. His score on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) was 30, indicating moderate to severe anxiety, and his score on the Pittsburgh Insomnia Severity Index (PSQI) was 17, classifying him as a poor sleeper. The patient underwent 42 days of Ayurvedic treatment, which included Panchakarma therapy and internal medications. The Panchakarma therapy consisted of Abhyanga with Matra Basti, Shirodhara, and Pratimarsha Nasya using Bala Ashwagandhadi oil. The internal medications included Manasmitra Vataka, Chitrakadi Vati, and Kalyanak Ghrita. After 42 days of treatment, the patient's HAM-A score decreased to 11, and the PSQI score dropped to 6. The patient reported a renewed sense of well-being and enthusiasm for work after a long time.

An integrative approach in the management of ACL injury through Ayurveda and Physiotherapy- A Case report

The knee joint is a synovial hinge joint pivotal to human locomotion and stability. Comprising intricate articulations between the femur, tibia and patella. It facilitates complex movements, from flexion and extension to rotation. Knee ligaments are commonly injured due to indirect forces, such as twisting or bending of the knee, or rotational movements of the joint. Among these ligaments, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is particularly important as it primarily prevents excessive forward movement of the tibia relative to the femur. Additionally, it contributes to the stability of the knee joint in both frontal and transverse planes. Injury to the ACL, whether through trauma or overuse, can compromise knee stability and function, often requiring surgical intervention and rehabilitation to restore optimal joint function. In the conventional treatment regimen, options like exercises, braces, lifestyle changes, and surgeries, including graft fixation, are utilized. Surgical procedures may result in complications such as post-operative stiffness and pain. These complications can impact mobility and overall quality of life, Ayurvedic treatment modalities like Snehana (oleation), Swedana (sudation), Basti Karma (medicated enema), Upanaha (local application) etc. have demonstrated notable improvements in both traumatic and degenerative conditions, with a particular emphasis on delaying the onset of osteoarthritis. The present study concludes that the integrative approach of Ayurveda and Physiotherapy helps to manage ACL injury.

Exploring the potential of the traditional Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, for developing an evidence-based integrative model of cancer care in elderly patients with cancer.

e13527 Background: Available evidence suggests that age is a deterrent to accepting cancer-directed treatment, with up to 38% of advanced-stage elderly cancer patients declining conventional anticancer therapy. Such patients opt for various complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Considering the paucity of available evidence about CAM, it is necessary that the outcomes of CAM in elderly cancer patients should be studied and an evidence-based integrated model for cancer care should be developed. In the present study, we evaluated various characteristics and outcomes of elderly cancer patients from India who voluntarily opt for Ayurveda cancer therapy, either after having a persistent disease after completing conventional therapies or declining conventional therapy. Methods: This observational study was conducted on the elderly population (age> 65 years) approaching treatment at our specialty Ayurveda cancer clinic in India. Data about demography, comorbidity, and efficacy outcome variables like QoL (FACT-G), Performance status (ECOG), anxiety and depression (HADS) was obtained through chart review based on the computerized database of patients who approached treatment between years 2020 to 2023. This being a preliminary proof of concept study the obtained data was subjected to per protocol analysis for avoiding the effect of various confounding variables which can lead to dropouts and poor compliance. As such, study analysis includes only those patients who completed at least 180 days of treatment with more than 80% compliance to the therapy for at least 6 months. Results: From database of 1010 elderly cancer patients, data from 172 patients (92 males and 80 females) who fulfilled the eligibility criteria was selected. Amongst the total sample size, 131 patients were of stage III and IV. The number of patients with uncontrolled hypertension, uncontrolled diabetes, and a history of cardiovascular accidents was 45 (26.1%), 83 (48.2%) and 8 (4.6%) respectively. More than one comorbidity was present in 70 patients (40.6%), whereas 64 patients (37%) patients voluntarily refused anticancer therapies. The duration of treatment was 459.58 (±246.89) days. At the end of 90 and 180 days, a significant improvement was observed in Qol, Performance status, depression, and anxiety (all P>0.01). Conclusions: This study suggests that amongst the elderly Indian cancer patients who opt for Ayurveda therapy, around 38% of them decline conventional therapy whereas others opt for Ayurveda therapy after completing conventional anti-cancer therapies. Ayurveda therapy has been shown to improve health-related Quality of life, performance status, anxiety, and depression. This finding warrants further prospective pragmatic studies which can act as a basis to develop an evidence-based integrative model for cancer care in the elderly population.

Case study of Panchvalkala Kwath for Sitz Bath & Abhayarishta, Kumaryasav & Kshar sutra Application in management of Bhagandar w.s.r to Fistula- in- Ano

Fistula in Ano is a chronic inflammatory condition having a tubular structure with opening in the Anorectal canal at one end and surface of perineum or perianal skin on the other end. Any opening in perianal area with chronic pus discharge indicates fistulous tract. Prolong sitting, unhygienic condition, obesity, repeated irritation due to hair may increase the risk of occurrence. In Ayurveda it is correlated with Bhagandar and Acharya Sushruta mentioned five types of Bhagandar. He had explained Shastra karma along with Kshar karma and Bheshaja chikitsa for treatment. Here a case of fistula in Ano in a 21 years male patient was examined in Shalya OPD and treated with Ksharsutra, considering it as an ideal procedure in treatment of Bhagandar as it cuts and curettes the unhealthy tissue present inside the fistulous tract. An Anal fistula can heal more quickly after taking a sitz bath. The warm water helps ease pain and suffering while also reducing inflammation. Moreover, it can aid in maintaining cleanliness in the affected area, lowering the chance of infection. Abhayarishta and Kumaryasav can be used as a laxative to help manage constipation. Keywords: Bhagandar, Fistula-in-Ano, Kshar Sutra, Abhayarishta.

Ethno-Taxonomical Studies of some Ayurvedic Drugs

Ethno-taxonomical explanation of some plants forming constituents of Ayurvedic drugs has been provided in the present paper.

Depleting Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of Jharkhand State

The newly created state of Jharkhand is very rich in the plant wealth and other natural resources. The area has maxium concentration of tribal population in North India. The forests have several medicinal and aromatic plants that are being used as a source of medicines in various systems viz., Ayurveda, Siddha Unani and Homoeopathy. Due to continous habitat destruction fragmentation of forests, urbanization coupled with population explosion and agricultural growth, there is unprecedented pressure on plants wealth culminating into loss of biodiversity at an alarming rate. The authors have regularly been surveying the state for the last fifteen years. Based on the field survey literature and screening ca 24 medicinal plants whose populations have been continously depleting are identified and reported in the present communication.

Diabetic nephropathy: Ayur‐nutri‐pharmaco approach

AbstractPrameha, described in Ayurveda, shares similarities with non‐communicable lifestyle disorder Diabetes Mellitus. It is associated with an array of complications, referred to as “Upadrava” which can manifest in various organ systems. Among the complications, diabetic nephropathy (DN) stands out as a critical concern due to its impact on kidney health. Ayurveda views the body as an interplay of Doshas, and diabetes‐related nephropathy is understood through the lens of “Prameha upadrava” which involves an imbalance of Doshas affecting kidney function. Ayurvedic treatment emphasizes personalized dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, lifestyle modifications, and mind‐body practices, wherein the Modern therapeutic approaches include receptor mediated targeting, stem cell therapies, and dietary management. The current review aims for better insights, amalgamating the ailments and divergence between Ayurvedic and pharmacological perspectives on pathophysiology and management of DN. A dedicated effort has been initiated to identify the specific edible botanical elements mentioned as Pramehaghna in the Ayurvedic compendium, Bhavaprakash nighantu. A comprehensive evaluation of botanical entities was performed for a deeper understanding of their enumerated properties. The data pave newer avenues toward multidimensional‐holistic approach to address the intricate complexities of DN leading to integrated approaches in Ayurveda, nutrition and pharmacology leading to better health and hygiene.

Lifestyle Modification for Prediabetes through Ayurvedic Interventions – A Case Study

Diabetes Mellitus is a metabolic disorder caused by an unhealthy lifestyle. Pre-diabetes is an asymptomatic condition, where blood sugar levels are elevated but are not high enough to be classified as T2DM and is considered a high-risk state for the development of diabetes. The estimated prevalence of prediabetes in India is 14 %. Early diagnosis and intervention with lifestyle modification can reduce the risk of Diabetes Mellitus. In the present case study 53 yrs. female patient with a raised blood sugar level and HbA1C is 6.4% which shows a prediabetic condition is treated with Ayurvedic medicine and Lifestyle modification. Diet and Yoga were advised. Ayurvedic Intervention reduces the elevated blood sugar level with an HbA1C value is 5.6% in 3 months. Lifestyle modification prevents the further progression of disease. Ayurvedic Interventions with lifestyle modification effectively control blood sugar levels in prediabetic conditions without any oral hypoglycaemic medication.

Complex Transphincteric Fistula Treatment: A Case Study Demonstrating Swift Recovery and Innovative Techniques in Surgical Intervention

The target of this case report is to see the way of effective treatment for a transphincteric fistula in a 56 years old male patient who has not had any earlier surgeries despite this problem already exists for one year. What was remarkable about that was that the fistulogram with MRI demonstrated the interesting structure of the fistula: both openings – the send and the outflow – were at the 12 o’clock brightest place, hence a more precise treatment having to be employed. Utilizing methylene blue infiltration and metal probing for prompt and exact diagnosis, the next step was the formulation of a detailed treatment approach that would best suit the needs of our patient. As a part of treatment regimen , it was decided to use an Ayurvedic approach called kshara sutra therapy. the treatment had a planned part where we removed sections of the distal tract, and finally packing left intermittent openings. After a two-month-long remarkably successful treatment. Such impressive results reflect the effectiveness of the multifaceted approach. , this case marks a major step forward through introducing the specification of the new strategies that capable of controlling difficult fistulas. These observations in this study suggest tailored treatment and may lead subsequent planning of therapeutic interventions that should be similar for near future clinical conditionings. Futhermore, they are the main advocates of considering patients' needs and applying a holistic vision in medicine.

Management of Autism Spectrum Disorder Through Ayurvedic Intervention and Diet Modifications

Autism spectrum disorder includes a group of neurodevelopmental disorders, which disrupts normal functioning of the brain and impairs communication, social interaction, emotional balance with the presence of repetitive stereotypic mannerisms. Underlying etiology of autism spectrum disorder is still unknown. Studies on genetic causes, immune system dysregulation, inflammation, exposure to environmental toxicants, defective gut microbiome are still continuing. In ayurveda, most psycho social abnormalities are included in the category of Unmada. Along with other etiological factors, impaired digestive and metabolic functions are postulated as the root cause of Unmada. And in accord with the gut brain axis, systemic accumulation of metabolic wastes also disrupts the functional integrity of the brain. The present study describes the case of a child with ASD with hyperactivity, who has been clinically diagnosed and treated with Ayurvedic medications, Sneha sweda therapies and diet modifications, which helps in maintaining the healthy functioning of the brain. Within 3 months of intervention, the child became symptomatically better. Case study briefs Ayurvedic concepts and Ayurvedic treatment protocols regarding ASD.

Management of PCOS Infertility then implementation of Garbhini Parichaya till Full Term by Ayurveda - Case Study

Primary Infertility associated with recurrent pregnancy loss because of Viral infections like TORCH and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a worrisome issue nowadays. In modern medicine, antiviral drugs are the main treatment for TORCH, causing various side effects. Ayurveda being preventive and curative medicinal branch, has good positive outcome in the treatment of TORCH induced BOH and infertility. The Garbhini Paricharya refers to the care given to pregnant lady. It has to be started as soon as the signs and symptoms of pregnancy are seen. The rate of abortions can be prevented by following proper antenatal care detailed in Ayurveda. Presenting a case report of 32-year-old female came to Govt. Ayurvedic college and hospital, Varanasi with 11 years of married life and history of two consecutive spontaneous abortions and wasn’t able to conceive since then. She was detected with PCOS and Positive TORCH infection. Her last USG findings dated 17/01/2023 was right ovarian- PCOS morphology & left ovarian- hemorrhagic cyst 54x60mm + subserosal uterine fibroid 20x27mm in fundal region with complaints of inability to conceive with complaints of delayed menses at interval of 2-6 months with prolonged bleeding with clots for 10-15 days for 7 years (after last abortion). Treatment protocol was based upon Samprapti Vighatan & focused on Prakriti of patient, Dosha Pradhanya Lakshana & Dosha Dushya Sammurchana. She was treated with Jalkumbhi Kshar with Varunadi Kwath for her fibroid and Pushpadhanva Rasa, Kanchanar Guggulu, Ashokarishta etc along with Nasya, Matra Basti and Uttar Basti. After 4 months of treatment, patient was treated successfully with Ayurvedic intervention and Garbhini paricharya with conception and delivery of a full-term healthy baby boy.

A Case Study on Bala Amavata w.s.r. to Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Introduction: Amavata is one of the most difficult to cure (Krichhrasadhya) diseases mentioned in Ayurveda. The main pathological factor in the development of this disease is “Ama”. This Ama is carried by “Vata” and travels throughout the body and gets lodges in the joints, which is the seat of “Kapha”. Accumulation of Ama in all the joints, results in Shotha (edema), Shoola (pain) and Stabdhata (stiffness) in the joints. Clinically, it is closely related to Rheumatoid Arthritis, which is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease involving multiple joints of the body. Methodology: A 13years boy with multiple joint pain, diagnosed as Amavata treated with Ayurvedic treatment modalities like Patrapinda Sweda and Virechana. Result: Remarkable improvement was noticed in pain, swelling, morning stiffness and restricted joint movement within first two months. Discussion: In modern medicine, the treatment of this disease includes steroids and Immunomodulator drugs together with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which acts as only Symptomatic treatment, whereas Virechana karma is one of the important bio-purificative methods which is indicated for complete elimination of Dushita Doshas and Ama from the body. Hence this article highlights on the importance of Ayurvedic treatment in the management of Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis).

A Clinical Study of Knee Joint Ligament Injury with Ayurvedic Treatment

Knee is one of the largest and most complex joint of body. The complexity is because where there will be fusion of Lateral femorotibial, Medial femorotibial and Femoropatellar joints. Here a case report of 24 years female while playing had a sudden trauma to right knee with severe pain and swelling. Patient was unable to flex the knee joint. On MRI she was diagnosed with thinning and altered signal intensity of anterior cruciate ligament with partial tear and thickening of the medial meniscus with horizontal tear in posterior horn. By this patient was unable to do day to day activities. Here 2 months of Ayurvedic treatment was followed by patient who provided relief from pain and brought a significant improvement in the movement of knee joint.

Management of Chronic Persisting Varicose Ulcer Through Modest Ayurvedic Intervention

Varicose ulcer is one of the most common venous disorders which occur as a complication of varicose vein. Venous insufficiency, venous reflux and venous hypertension not only result in dilation and tortuosity of the veins but are also responsible for both dermatological and vascular complication, resulting in the manifestation of varicose ulcer. It is a slow healing chronic recurrent ulcer accounting for almost 80% ulceration of lower extremities. A 50 years old man visited the OPD with complains of pain, swelling, discolouration and wound over the anterior aspect of the left leg above the ankle joint for 6 months. He had a history of varicose vein since 10 years. Six setting of Jalaukavacharan (leech therapy) along with internal administration of Shamana Aushadhi and external cleansing and dressing of ulcer have been done for a period of 1 and a half month. Gradual improvements of symptoms have been observed. The complete ulcer healing evidence has provided an interesting and encouraging result to the scholar and practitioner of this field. The Shamana Aushadhi like Mahamanjisthadi kwath, Kaishor Guggulu, Yastimadhu, Guduchi Sattva and Jalaukavacharan as Sastra karma have showed excellent Vrana Ropaka or ulcer healing effect in a long standing critical venous ulcer.

An Observational Invasive of Explore Effect of Ayurveda Drugs in the Management of Indigestion wsr to Amajeerna and Udavarta

Due to secondary lifestyle and diet junk food may be the leading etiology for Ghrelin hypofunction. It leads to indigestion. Pioneer Ayurveda classics like Charaka Samhita, Susruta Samhita, Madhav Nidan, Astanga Hridaya etc explained aforesaid disease condition as Agnimandya, Amajeerna and Udavarta is the result of suppression of some natural urges like the desire to micturition, defecation, vomiting, hunger etc. Common symptom of Amajeerna are felling of heaviness in abdomen, nausea, belching similar just after meals. Based on classical and contemporary science a single case study was taken out in the West Bengal with an Ayurveda Interventions to rule out the clinical significant of it. In this study biochemical as well as radiological parameter were consider before and after treatment. However in this study we were found Ayurvedic treatment protocol shown a significant clinical improvement on Amajeerna and Udavarta along with patient weight reduction and management of alcoholic fatty liver may be due to drugs combined role on hepatoprotective, Ghrelin polypeptide and action on other digestive enzymes.

A conceptual study on clinical application of Pratisaraniya Kshara Karma

Ayurveda indeed delves deep into various therapeutic procedures, including Shastrakarma and Anushstra Karma. Kshara, considered one of the prime therapies, is classified into Paneeya and Pratisarneeya, with the latter further divided into Mridu, Madhyama and Teekshana.[1] Pratisaraniya Kshara involves diverse applications like Kshara application, Kshara Sutra, Kshara Varti, Kshara Plota, Kshara Taila infiltration and intralesional injection of Ksharodaka. Its primary applications encompass treating conditions such as Arsha (hemorrhoids), Bhagandara (fistula-in-ano), Nadivrana (sinus), Vidradhi (abscess), Dustavrana (non healing ulcer) and Charmakeela (warts). In the Sushruta Samhita, Acharya Sushruta elaborates on Kshara's multifaceted actions, attributing qualities like Chedana (cutting), Bhedana (penetrating), Lekhana (scraping), Dahana (caustic action), Pachana (digestive), Darana (breaking down), Vilayana (dissolving), Sodhana (purifying), Ropana (healing) and Stambhana (arresting).[2] Kshara's caustic nature plays a pivotal role in eliminating necrosed and infected tissues by inducing controlled tissue destruction.