Abstract Background: Tamragarbha Pottali (TGP) is a distinct dosage form of Tamra Bhasma first documented in Rasayogsagar. However, a critical review of classical literature and contemporary research reveals limited information regarding its detailed pharmaceutical processing and advanced instrumental analytical characterization. Materials and methods: Gold, copper, sulfur, mercury, and other raw materials were obtained and verified. Using traditional guidelines, nine batches of TGP were prepared. Both physicochemical and sophisticated instruments were used to characterize the TGP. Results: At an average heat period of 9 h with a gradually increasing temperature pattern (120°C–200°C), a weight gain of 4.75% (0.91 gm) was recorded in a batch size of 144 g of Pottali (9 batches). Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy and carbon-hydrogen-nitrogen-sulfur-oxygen study revealed the presence of copper and sulfur at higher concentration, followed by the presence of mercury and gold. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterization showed that TGP contains organometallic compounds. The field emission gun-scanning electron microscopy characterization reveals that TGP contains nanoparticles. The XRD analysis revealed the presence of covellite (CuS), chalcocite (Cu 2 S), antlerite (Cu 2 + 3 [SO 4 ][OH] 4 ), and sulfur (α-S 8 ) along with their crystallite size, dislocation density, and lattice strain parameter. The stoichiometry of the TGP has been verified by employing energy-dispersive analysis of X-rays. The TGA exhibited 57.6% weight loss in the TGP. Laser Raman spectroscopy shows the presence of CuO or Cu 2 O along with bands of α-HgS, and the electronic spin resonance spectrum confirms copper Cu² + state stable copper sulfur/oxygen complexes in the TGP. Conclusion: TGP prepared through controlled heating at 0.079°C/min over 9 h demonstrated consistent batch uniformity with a mean weight gain of 4.75%. The final product is a nanoscale, crystalline material predominantly composed of copper sulfide with trace phases of mercury, gold, and copper oxides.
Abstract Background: Shayyamutra (enuresis) is one of the common urological and disabling problems of developmental age. Involuntary voiding of urine at least twice per week for at least 3 consecutive months, without any congenital defects, is the hallmark of enuresis. Desmopression, imipramine, and anticholinergic drugs are the available pharmacotherapies for enuresis, but have a high relapse rate after their discontinuation. Medhya Rasayana , a polyherbal formulation mentioned in Ayurveda, helps to improve cognition and neuromuscular control, and Yoga Asana are known to improve the stability of biological systems. Aim: This study was planned to evaluate and compare the efficacy of Medhya Rasayana with and without Yoga Asana in the management of Shayyamutra in children. Materials and methods: A total of 41 patients, of either sex, aged 6 to 14 years, were randomly divided into two groups. In group A (MRY) , Medhya Rasayana powder, along with Yoga Asana , i.e., Utkatasana, Ardha-Shalabhasana, Bhujangasana, Shavasana , and for group B (MR), Medhya Rasayana was given for 8 weeks, followed by a 4-week follow-up period. Out of 41 patients, a total of 38 patients, i.e., 19 patients from group A and 19 patients from group B, completed the treatment protocol. Bedwetting frequency and associated psychological symptoms, i.e., impaired memory, irritability, lack of concentration, hyperactivity, and fear, were assessed before and after the treatment. Statistical analysis was done by applying the Wilcoxon signed-rank test within the groups and the Mann-Whitney U test between the groups. Result: Medhya Rasayana with Yoga Asana (MRY) had shown statistically significant improvement in bedwetting frequency, impaired memory, irritability, lack of concentration, hyperactivity, and fear, while Medhya Rasayana (MR) showed statistically significant improvement in all except hyperactivity and fear. On comparison of both groups, a significant difference was observed in bedwetting frequency ( P < 0.001) and improvement of impaired memory ( P = 0.034) and hyperactivity ( P = 0.025). Conclusion: A given set of Yoga Asana , when combined with Medhya Rasayana , yields better results in reducing the frequency of bedwetting in children with enuresis compared with Medhya Rasayana administered alone.
Abstract Background: Oral cancer is the 16 th most common cancer in the world. Regardless of various treatment modalities, it still accounts for 2% of all malignancies. Currently, the interest in traditional medicine for cancer treatment is increasing steadily due to its fewer side effects. Patta Ajwain ( Plectranthus amboinicus [Lour.] Spreng) is one such herb that is known for its medicinal properties. Aims: To evaluate the antioxidant and anticancer properties of the ethanolic extract of Patta Ajwain on human oral cancer cell lines. Materials and methods: Ethanolic extraction of Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng leaves were performed, followed by preliminary phytochemical screening using standard qualitative methods. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Anticancer property was analysed through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and apoptosis was observed through transmembrane potential assay, 4′,6-Diamidino-2-Phenylindole (DAPI) staining, and flow cytometry. Results: Phytochemical analysis of the ethanolic extract revealed the presence of various secondary metabolites (alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, and terpenoids). The extract exhibited DPPH radical scavenging activity, which increased in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the ethanolic extract demonstrated significant anticancer activity against oral cancer cell lines, with cytotoxic effects, IC 50 value of 71 ± 5.02 μg/ml, and morphological changes seen through mitochondrial transmembrane potential, DAPI staining, and induced flow cytometry. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the ethanolic extract of Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng shows antioxidant and anticancer activity, especially at higher concentrations. These effects are likely due to the presence of bioactive secondary metabolites.
Abstract Shwitra (vitiligo), an autoimmune condition, has a prevalence of 0.1%–2% worldwide. The prevalence in the pediatric population is between 0.1% and 4% worldwide, found to be higher in Indian children and most frequent in girls. It is characterized by hypopigmented or white macules and patches over the skin due to decreased melanin pigment or destruction of melanocytes. Herein, a case report of a 9-year-old girl with Shwitra (vitiligo) was assessed on subjective and dermatology life quality parameters. Emotional stress due to teasing, bullying, and losing friends was a part of the tender childhood during the disease condition. She was treated with herbomineral Ayurvedic interventions and achieved remission on subjective as well as emotional stressors within 6 months of treatment, with a great impact on the daily life, feelings, and school performance of the child. The treatment was found to be safe on liver and kidney function parameters. The current study provides evidence that Ayurvedic interventions are advantageous in autoimmune conditions such as Shwitra (vitiligo) and their impact on emotional stress in pediatric subjects.
Ayurveda, since the Vedic era, has evolved through a continuum of textual traditions, from the comprehensive Samhitas (classical treatises) to concise compendia and specialized works. Among these, Vaidyaratna by Sri Goswami Shivananda Bhatta (16 th –17 th century CE) stands out as a refined synthesis of classical knowledge and clinical experience. Despite its scholarly depth, Vaidyaratna remains an underexplored text in Ayurvedic literature. The study aimed to introduce Vaidyaratna and highlight its unique literary structure, conceptual insights, and practical contributions within the Ayurvedic textual tradition. The primary source for the study was Vaidyaratna with Hindi commentary by Pandit Jwala Prasadji, published by Khemaraj Shri Krishnadas, Mumbai. A comparative analysis was undertaken with Charaka Samhita , Sushruta Samhita , Sharngadhara Samhita , Bhavaprakasha Nighantu , and Yogaratnakara , focusing on structure, metrical composition, language, and therapeutic innovations. Vaidyaratna comprises seven Prakashas (chapters) and 917 verses, covering the eight branches of Ayurveda. The last two chapters serve as a Nighantu (lexicon) and pharmaceutic section. The text exhibits simplicity of language, poetic elegance across twelve Chandas (meters), and creative Upamanas (similes). It elaborates on diagnostic methods like Nadi (pulse), Jihva (tongue), and Druk (eyes); diseases like Gajacharma (ichthyosis vulgaris) and Sheetalika (skin eruptions like vesicles); single-drug therapies; Abhava Pratinidhi Dravya (substitutes); Daivavyapashraya (spiritual therapies) and Yuktivyapashraya Chikitsa (rational therapies); and herbomineral formulations. Vaidyaratna bridges classical Samhitas and later concise compendia, integrating concepts and practices with literary finesse. Its holistic approach encompassing diagnosis, dietetics, astrology, and spirituality reflect the adaptability of Ayurveda and its enduring relevance to contemporary healthcare.
Background: The Gudabhransha (rectal prolapse) is a disease in which displacement of the Guda (anorectum) from its normal position either part of the rectal wall or the whole rectal wall prolapsed through the anal opening. In males, the maximum incidence was in the second and third decades, in females, it was in the fifth and subsequent decades. Overall, prolapse of the rectum affects relatively few people (2.5 cases/100,000 people). The exact cause of rectal prolapse is not well addressed but it is often associated with long-standing, constipation, advanced age, severe cough, diarrhea, bleeding per rectum, and some neurological disorders. Aim: The aim of the study was to study the effect of Moola Bandha in male and female patients suffering from rectal prolapse ( Gudabhransha ). Materials and methods: Total of 20 patients were assigned to two groups (10 in each group) by computer-generated randomization. Patients aged 20–70 with symptomatic rectal prolapse in the interventional group were offered Moola Bandha along with Changeri Ghrita treatment modalities, while the control group was only on Changeri Ghrita treatment. All participants gave written informed consent. An assessment was done by improvement in chief complaints, digital rectal examination (DRE), grading system of rectal prolapse, and high-resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM) before treatment/therapy and at the end of 1, 2, 3, and 4 months. Results: Twenty patients underwent HRAM using 16 channels. Measurements were performed during rest, squeeze, and rectal sensations. Data were displayed as color plots and analyzed through the software of Anorectal manometry. The length of the anal canal, maximum basal pressure, and maximum squeeze pressure were measured before and after the treatment/therapy. At the end of the 4-month, poststudy comparison between and within the two groups showed a significant improvement in chief complaints. After intervention, 80% patients relief in prolapsed mass during defecation ( P < 0.008), sphincter tone of 60% patients become normal tone ( P < 0.01), 80% patients relief in discomfort through finger insertion in DRE ( P < 0.004) and 80% cases were changed the grade of rectal prolapse into normal anorectum ( P < 0.004). The pressure of the external and internal anal sphincter was comparatively increased after the intervention of Moola Bandha . Conclusion: It can be concluded that the rectal prolapse comparatively significantly regresses with combined management of Moola Bandha along with Changeri Ghrita treatment (intervention) rather than only Changeri Ghrita treatment. It could be stated that Moola Bandha is an effective add on method of treatment of rectal prolapse ( Gudabhransha) .
Significant advances in information and technology, globalization, and increased awareness of health, limitations of conventional medicine, and awareness of the significance of natural, traditional medicines are leading to a constantly increasing global demand for traditional medicine, which in turn can lead to the practice of polypharmacy and susceptibility to drug-drug interactions. Although the role of traditional medicines in universal health coverage, public health has been well acknowledged globally, paucity on their drug-drug interactions is one among the major hurdles for its mass level globalization and easy, hassle-free incorporation into national health policy. Several countries have an integrative health care policy, but many more run a parallel health care system at the national level. There is a dire need for a policy framework, models, plans to continuously evaluate, monitor, analyse, and convey the safety of Traditional medicine (TM) with respect to drug-drug interactions. The article elaborates the need, scope, and challenges in monitoring, analysing drug-drug interactions of traditional medicines for optimization of their therapeutic utility and suggests a way forward with excerpts of integration of Ayush medicines; TMs of India in national health policy, health care delivery, and pharmacovigilance monitoring as used case.
Abstract Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems in today’s era, affecting people of all age groups, and has a bad impact on the digestive system, which leads to a negative effect on the quality of life. Prevalence of constipation in the Indian population is 33.2%, and obstructed defecations is around 26.8%. Here is a case report of a 26-year-old male patient who approached the hospital with complaints of unsatisfactory, irregular, hard bowel movements with a straining nature, associated with abdominal pain, which hampers his daily routine activities. Constipation was present since childhood, progressively worsening over the last 10 years. Based on the classical symptoms, the case was diagnosed as Purishaja Udavarta (functional constipation [FC]), which can be correlated with FC diagnosed based on ROME IV criteria and Bristol Stool Scale (BSS). The patient was treated by treatment guidelines of Charaka Samhita viz ., Abhyanga (therapeutic massage) by castor oil and Swedana (therapeutic sudation) by steam of Dashamoola decoction over abdomen, Shyamadi Phala Varti (rectal suppository), Kala Basti (course of sixteen therapeutic enema) by Palashadi Basti (510 ml of Palashadi Kwatha (decoction) as Niruha Basti (therapeutic decoction enema), and 100 ml of Eranda oil as Anuvasana Basti (therapeutic unctuous enema)] and Shamana (palliative therapy) by 4 g of Dviruttara Hingvadi Choorna two times before breakfast and dinner with lukewarm water for 45 days. The change in the classical and associated symptoms of FC was assessed on the Likert Scale, BSS (from type-1 to type-4), Patient Assessment of Constipation-Quality of Life scale (from 71 to 38), and Visual Analog Scale (from 4 to 0). Sustained and satisfactory improvement was noted at the follow-up fortnightly up to 60 days. After the complete course of treatment, the complaint of unsatisfactory hard bowel and irregular bowel habit got resolved without any adverse events. No re-occurrence of symptoms has been observed till 60 days of follow-up after the cessation of treatment. This case report suggests that the Charaka principle of management for Purishaja Udavarta is effective in improving the quality of life and the sustained management of symptoms in a case of FC and support further evaluation.
Background: Manasa Prakriti (psychological personality traits) framework in Ayurveda provides a unique perspective on psychological constitution through the principles of Triguna ( Satva, Rajas, and Tamas ). Despite its significance, the lack of a standardized tool has restricted its integration into contemporary clinical and research paradigms. Aim and objective: To develop and scientifically validate a psychometric tool for the assessment of Manasa Prakriti (psychological personality traits). Materials and methods: The Manasa Prakriti tool (MPT) is a systematic, multiphased research study, employing a sequential exploratory study design which integrates qualitative and quantitative methodologies, with due institutional ethics committee approval. The research comprises two phases: tool development (conceptualization, variable pooling, operationalization, item generation, and archetypical renaming) and its subsequent validation. Results: The development process yielded a 70-item tool with high content validity indices, including Item-level Content Validity Index ranging from 0.9 to 1 and Scale-Level Content Validity Index averaging 0.95. Archetypical renaming and bilingual adaptation enhanced cultural relevance and accessibility. Conclusion: The MPT bridges traditional Ayurveda principles and contemporary psychological assessment. This article sets the foundation for subsequent validation phases to establish its empirical reliability and construct validity.
Background: Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the lung airways resulting in episodic airflow obstruction. It is the most common chronic disease among children, ranking among the top 20 conditions worldwide for disability-adjusted life years in children. This highlights the need for traditional medicine in the long-term management of Asthma. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of Kantakari Avaleha (KA) in the management of Tamaka Shwasa (bronchial asthma) in children. Materials and methods: The present study was open-labeled, randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 104 patients of bronchial asthma were screened, out of which 100 patients were registered in the study. These patients were randomly allocated to either KA treated group A ( n = 50) or to Chitrakaharitaki Avaleha (CHA) treated control group B ( n = 50). Among them, 80 patients completed the trial along with follow-up, and 20 patients did not complete the trial. Results: After 8 weeks of treatment, use of KA (group A; n = 40) showed statistical significant improvement in most of the clinical features, Agni Bala (digestion power), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), respiratory rate (RR), breath holding time, level of asthma control (LAC), asthma control test (ACT) and in asthma control questionnaire (ACQ). CHA (Group B; n = 40) showed significant improvement in all the clinical features, digestion power, PEFR, RR, LAC, ACT, and in ACQ. On comparison of the groups, significant difference was found in breathlessness ( P = 0.006) , cold ( P = 0.021) , difficulty in speaking ( P = 0.018) , ACT ( P = 0.034), and ACQ ( P = 0.003) (Group B was better than Group A). No any adverse reaction was observed during the study period. Conclusion: Chitrakaharitaki Avaleha is more effective than Kantakari Avaleha in managing bronchial asthma in children.
Background: Herbal formulations have shown therapeutic potential in wound healing in routine clinical practice as well as in experimental and clinical studies. Ethnomedicine practices also utilize different medicinal plants to manage skin wounds. Aim: The present study was planned to evaluate the therapeutic potential of the topical application of a polyherbal Ayurveda intervention, Ayush AGT gel-based cream, in managing superficial skin wounds. Materials and methods: This multicenter, open-label, prospective, single-arm exploratory clinical study was conducted at Central Ayurveda Research Institute, New Delhi, and Regional Ayurveda Research Institutes at Ahmadabad and Vijayawada, India, on 90 participants. Eligible subjects of any gender aged 18–60 years with superficial skin wounds ≥2.5 cm 2 were enrolled in the study. The study participants were advised to apply Ayush AGT gel-based cream once daily at the time of dressing changing, followed by sterile bandaging for 4 weeks. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of complete wound healing, defined as complete re-epithelialization assessed through the Bates–Jensen tool on every follow-up (on days 7, 14, 21, and 28). Other outcome measures include a change in the score for pain at the time of changing dressing (assessed through Visual Analog Scale), incidence of wound infection, and treatment-emergent adverse events. Results: In this study, 90 participants with superficial skin wounds were enrolled. The incidence of complete wound healing was observed in 78 (86.7%) participants during the treatment period ( P < 0.001). There was a significant reduction (both clinically and statistically) in the score of pain during change of dressing from 6.54 ± 1.96 at baseline to 3.42 ± 1.63 at day 14 ( P < 0.001). A considerable decrease in the overall score of the Bates–Jensen wound assessment tool from 26.60 ± 5.66 at baseline to 14.34 ± 2.91 at day 28 was also observed ( P < 0.001). No treatment-related adverse events occurred during the study. Conclusion: In this multicenter study, Ayush AGT cream exhibited good wound healing activity while being safe and well-tolerated. Further, well-designed RCTs may be planned to generate concrete evidence on the clinical efficacy of this herbal formulation to consider it an effective therapeutic option for wound management.
Blepharospasm is a common focal cranial dystonia characterized by involuntary contractions of the orbicularis oculi muscle, resulting in spasmodic closure of the eyelids. The symptoms of blepharospasm are closely related to Nimesha , which is described as Vartmagata Roga by Acharya Sushruta. The present case report highlights the Ayurvedic treatment strategies for the management of blepharospasm. A 36-year-old female presented with blepharospasm, characterized by involuntary bilateral contractions of the eye and facial muscles, and sought Ayurvedic management. She had been experiencing symptoms such as excessive blinking, eyelid twitching, and pain in the facial and jaw muscles for the past 6 months. The treatment plan comprised internal medications like Dashamoola Ksheera Kashaya, Dhanvantaram Kashaya, Kalyanaka Ghrita , and Erandabhrista Haritaki Churna . In addition, external therapies such as facial Abhyanga (massage) with Ksheerabala Taila , Ksheeradhooma (medicated milk vapor), and Shiro Pichu (medicated oil-soaked cotton pad on the scalp) with Ksheerabala Taila were administered. Later, a Mriduvirechana (therapeutic mild purgation) with Nimbaamrutadi Eranda Taila was conducted. The treatment concluded with Shirodhara (medicated oil drip on the forehead) and Netra Picchu (medicated eye pads). After 26 days of treatment, the patient experienced significant relief from pain, with a decrease in the Visual Analog Scale score from 5 to 0. The Jankovic Rating Scale (JRS) for blepharospasm showed a reduction in severity from 4 to 2 and frequency from 3 to 1. The Blepharospasm Disability Index Score (BSDI) showed a significant improvement, decreasing from 10 to 2. This case suggests that Ayurvedic therapies can effectively reduce blepharospasm symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients.
Background: Kaphaja Yonivyapada (vulvovaginitis) is one among twenty types of Yoniroga (gynaecological disorders) caused by vitiation of Kapha with active involvement of Vata Dosha . Yonigata Pichhilasrava (unctuous vaginal discharge), Yonikandu (vulvovaginal itching), and Yonigata-Vedana (vulvovaginal pain) are the cardinal features of Kaphaja Yonivyapada and vulvovaginitis. The formulation Kasisadi Gel (KG), a modified form of Kasisadi Varti described by Acharya Charak in the treatment of Pichhila Yoni, contains multiple herbs and provides total care by producing antiseptic, decongestant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties, which provide relief in the symptoms of vulvovaginitis. Aims: To evaluate the efficacy of KG in the management of Kaphaja Yonivyapad vis-a-vis vulvo-vaginitis. Materials and methods: An open-label randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in sixty married women suffering from Kaphaja Yonivyapada of the age group of 20–40 years. After confirming the clinical and microbiological diagnosis, patients were randomly divided into two groups: Group A ( n = 30) received KG for local application and group B ( n = 30) received a market product. Both interventions were applied locally in the vagina (2 g) for 7 days and thereafter subjects were followed up for the next 7 days. Assessments were done at baseline, 7 th and 14 th days. Primary outcome measure was relief in symptoms of vulvovaginitis and secondary outcome measure was reduction in pathogenic bacteria both Gram-positive and Gram-negative. Results: After applying proper statistical test (one-way analysis of variance test, Tuke’s multiple comparison test), it is found that both KG and market product provided the significant improvements. However, Kasiadi Gel was better compared to market product in terms of primary and secondary outcomes. Comparison of outcomes from baseline on the 14 th day showed significant improvement in both the groups in parameters such as abnormal vaginal discharge, vulvovaginal itching and vulvovaginal pain and vaginal pH. Conclusion: This study is overly concluded that the KG is highly effective in reducing the clinical sign and symptoms of Kaphaja Yonivyapad (vulvovaginitis).
Background: The concept of Samskara (qualitative transformation) in Ayurveda refers to the transformation and enhancement of the inherent properties of medicinal substances, including qualitative alterations to improve clinical efficacy and reduce adverse effects. Parada (mercury), a potent yet toxic substance, requires meticulous purification through the Ashta Samskara (eight processes done on Parada ) to render it therapeutically safe and effective. Its transformative purification process, Ashta Samskara , involves eight distinct steps to detoxify and enhance the medicinal properties of mercury. This study systematically reviews the pharmaceutical research conducted at ITRA Jamnagar, encompassing the total number of studies, methods, and a detailed review of losses and yields after Samskara from 1958 to 2023. Aims: To systematically analyze the pharmaceutical research on Ashta Samskara of Parada conducted at ITRA Jamnagar. Materials and methods: This review analyzes thesis data from the Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar, focusing on research studies related to the Ashta Samskara of Parada . These were retrieved from the institutional library database using relevant keywords. Data extraction included references from Ayurvedic texts, modified instruments or procedures used in the processes, percentage of Parada loss, and total yield during Ashta Samskara , along with their analytical data such as purity assessments and impurity profiles. Quantitative metrics for Parada loss were calculated based on initial and final weights reported in the studies. No primary experimentation was conducted; the review relied solely on secondary data from archived postgraduate theses. Results: The results revealed a consistent terminology and sequence of Samskara across various texts, with variations in the methods and durations. A total of six studies were conducted with quantities of mercury ranging from 800 to 2000 g. Observations indicated that the cumulative mercury loss during the Ashta Samskara varied from 10% to 28.32%, depending on the specific techniques and materials used. Conclusion: The review of Parada Ashta Samskara at the Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar, highlights consistent traditional methods, with variations causing mercury loss (10%–28.32%). Combining classical and modern techniques will ensure effective, safe purification, with an emphasis on standardization and sustainability.
Abstract Background: Musculoskeletal disorders, a leading cause of global physical disability, significantly impact the quality of life. Phonophoresis, an ultrasound technique combined with a topical analgesic, is the preferred treatment. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Phonophoresis using Myostaal Gel, a proprietary polyherbal topical preparation, in acute painful musculoskeletal conditions. Materials and methods: Post Ethics approval, individuals aged 18–45 years with acute painful musculoskeletal conditions, viz. Tendinitis, bursitis, etc. for <12 weeks, approaching the orthopedic outpatient department, were randomized into two groups: Phonophoresis with Myostaal Gel (test) and Ultrasound therapy (control) in a 2:1 ratio. Six sessions, each lasting 10 min at 1.0–1.5 W/cm 2 intensity and 1 MHz frequency, were administered over 2 weeks (three sessions per week). On days 1, 7, 14, and 21 (additionally), pain (numerical pain rating scale [NPRS]), functional outcomes (Patient-Specific Functional Scale), and pressure pain threshold (PPT) by digital pressure algometer were assessed. Friedman test followed by posttest/Wilcoxon matched pairs test/Mann–Whitney tests were applied, significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Out of 82 participants, 61 (38 in the test and 23 in the control group) completed the study. Both groups showed significant pain reduction by day 14, with NPRS scores decreasing from 6 to 4. By day 21, the test group’s score further decreased to 3, while the score of the control group was 4. Functional outcomes improved significantly too from 5 to 6 in both groups by day 14 and further increased to 7 in the test group by day 21, whereas in the control group, it was 6. After completing sessions, pain decreased and functional outcomes improved in the test group but not in the control group on day 21. The PPT was better in the control group on both days: 14 th and 21 st , compared to the test, although nonsignificant. No skin sensitivity was noted in the test group. Although nonsignificant, test group also reported relatively better sleep quality in 17 participants compared to 5 in control group from moderate grade to good. Conclusion: Phonophoresis therapy with Myostaal Gel showed good therapeutic potential for pain relief and functional efficacy in acute musculoskeletal conditions.
Abstract Background: Rasayana therapy in Ayurveda promotes health and prevents diseases through holistic rejuvenation. Ashwagandhadi granules are a Ayurvedic formulation ( Anubhoota ) prepared from Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera Dunal.), Shatavari ( Asparagus Racemosus Willd.), Brahmi ( Bacopa monnieri L. Pennell), and Guduchi ( Bacopa monnieri L. Pennell). These herbs are well-documented for their Rasayana properties and effectiveness in addressing psychological and hormonal imbalances, such as mood fluctuations and anxiety. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the formulation for pharmacognostical, pharmaceutical, and contamination with pathogenic microorganisms to ensure its quality. Aims: To establish the preliminary microscopical and physicochemical analysis of Ashwagandhadi granules. Materials and methods: Ashwagandhadi granules were prepared according to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India (API). Raw materials were identified, authenticated, and evaluated through organoleptic study and microscopy. Physiochemical analysis and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) were performed, including tests for loss on drying, pH, water- and alcohol-soluble extractive values, and sugar estimation. Results: The microscopic diagnostic features were compared with the standards of the individual drugs mentioned in the API. Three spots were visualized on TLC of the formulation at 254 nm and three at 366 nm ultraviolet. Conclusions: After evaluating the pharmacognostical parameters, the contents of Ashwagandhadi granules were found to be authentic. The findings of sensory and physico-chemical evaluation of Ashwagandhadi granules may be considered for further development of its analytical profile.
Abstract Background: Swarnamakshika Bhasma (SMB) is one of the well-known drug, and its formulations are mainly indicated in Meha (polyuria disorders). Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia of India has mentioned another variety of Swarnamakshika (SM), i.e., Sandrita SM (concentrated ore of SM having 12% of copper; SSM), having the same indications as SMB. Diabetes is a chronic, metabolic disease that affects the millions of people worldwide and 422 million people worldwide live with diabetes. Diabetes directly causes around 1.5 million deaths annually. Despite having similar therapeutic indications, limited data are available regarding the comparative efficacy of the SMB and Sandrita SMB (SSMB). Hence, there is a need to generate the scientific data on comparative in vivo anti-diabetic efficacy of SMB and SSMB. Aim: The present study attempt has been made to assess and compare the anti-diabetic activity of SMB and SSMB. Materials and methods: For anti-diabetic activity, streptozotocin administered rats with blood sugar levels (BSL) >200 mg/dL were divided into six groups. Group I served as a nondiabetic control group, group II served as diabetic control (DC) group, group III was the standard control and administered with glibenclamide (0.65 mg/kg), group IV was vehicle control group and was administered with honey (10 ml/kg), group V was administered with SMB (22.50 mg/kg), and group VI was administered with SSMB (22.50 mg/kg) for 21 days. Results of the study were assessed on the basis of BSL, liver function tests, kidney function tests, and histopathological changes. Results: Both the SMB and SSMB exhibited a significant decrease in BSL ( P < 0.05) compared to the respective initial value (paired t -test, P < 0.05) and the DC group (unpaired t -test, P < 0.05). Histopathologically, nonsignificant changes were observed in any organ except mild to moderate fatty changes in the kidney in both the test drug-treated groups. Conclusion: SMB and SSMB have significant anti-diabetic activities in experimental models. SSMB has a comparatively better anti-diabetic effect than that of SMB.
Abstract Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing global health concern, with a spectrum ranging from simple steatosis to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite its increasing prevalence – particularly in Asia – there are currently no approved pharmacological treatments for NAFLD or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. The disease’s progression is influenced by metabolic dysfunction, obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammatory processes. Existing therapeutic strategies focus on lifestyle modifications, but more personalized, integrative approaches are urgently needed. Aims: To explore the Ayurvedic understanding of NAFLD and its progression to HCC and to propose a customized Ayurvedic and Yogic preventive-therapeutic protocol grounded in the individual-specific parameters of Agni (digestive/metabolic fire), (psycho-somatic constitution), Ama (metabolic toxins) etc. Materials and methods: A narrative review was conducted following SANRA guidelines. Literature was retrieved from PubMed, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar using the keywords such as NAFLD, HCC, Ayurveda, Agni, Prakriti , and Rasayana (rejuvenating therapy). Relevant literature and peer-reviewed articles obtained from these search engines and classical Ayurvedic compendia were reviewed, and data were analyzed thematically to identify the intersections between biomedical and Ayurvedic concepts. Results: Ayurveda characterizes NAFLD as a Santarpanajanya Vyadhi (disease caused by excessive nourishment to the body) resulting from the impaired functions of Agni, Medodhatu (fat/adipose tissue), and Tridosha (bodily humors – Vata, Pitta , and Kapha ). A personalized protocol involving Agnideepana (stimulation of digestive fire), Shodhana (therapeutic purification therapy), hepatoprotective and rejuvenative formulations, and targeted Yogic practices was developed. This protocol is adaptable to phenotypic variations and disease stages. Conclusion: Early implementation of a constitution-based Ayurvedic and Yogic regimen may prevent or decelerate NAFLD progression toward HCC. Integrating traditional knowledge systems with modern surveillance and stratification methods offers a promising, holistic approach to address the NAFLD–HCC continuum.
