Introduction and Background: Ayurveda is the oldest surviving system of medicine that has withstood the vicissitudes of time and the onslaughts of rival medical systems. In its present stature, it is both adaptive and resilient. Its increasing predominance in the digital space and negotiations on social media channels has heightened its global presence. The advancement of ancient wisdom on a technology-based platform warrants systematic investigation. Objectives: To examine the nature, content and tenor of the videos on Ayurveda, posted on YouTube channels; to investigate into the practices and strategies deployed by content creators in the construction, dissemination and popularization of Ayurveda from a sociological perspective; to cognize the dynamics between Ayurveda and Biomedicine as reflected in the videos. Methods: The study employs cyber-ethnography as a method of data collection followed by discourse analysis to cognize Ayurveda’s proliferation on YouTube channels. For this purpose, the discourse on videos from selected channels was transcribed, thematically organised, interpreted, and analysed. The videos are publicly available, names of the selected channels and their content creators have been anonymized. Findings: Videos disseminating the basic tenets of Ayurveda and their significance in promoting health cover a wide range of themes that catch the attention of all age groups. The discourse on herbal, safe, and inexpensive remedies cuts across all videos. Elements of contradiction, condemnation, and contestation of the Biomedical model are evident in the discourse. The videos also demonstrate Ayurveda’s conformity to the nosology, vocabulary, jargon, practices of standardization, and pharmaceuticalization of the Biomedical model that have facilitated its global proliferation. Conclusion: The discourse on social media replicates the ongoing dynamics of contestation and co-optations between the two systems of medicine. Social media has served to strengthen Ayurveda’s presence on the global platform, creating a sizeable online community of viewers.
Background: Kaksha is a disease described by Acharya Sushruta in Kshudra Rogas (minor disorders) which occurs due to vitiation of Pitta Dosha (regulates body temperature and metabolic activities) in the Bahu (upper limb), Ansapradesha (shoulder), Parshwa (flank) and Kaksha (axilla/armpit). The Kaksha is correlated to chronic inflammatory skin disease known as Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), in which formation of subcutaneous nodules or sinus tracts occurs leading to hypertrophic scarring at disease site often causing discomfort to the patient affecting his/her quality of life. The primary areas of HS are the buttocks, genitals, perineal region and axilla due to the presence of apocrine glands. The prevalence rate of HS ranges from 0.00033% to 4.1% globally, but the treatment of HS remains challenging due to the increased recurrence rate and associated postoperative complications. Clinical Findings: A 37-year-old female patient came with complaints of multiple small pustular swellings associated with severe pain and foul-smelling pus discharge from the right axilla. Local examination revealed four openings with a pus discharge and foul smell. Intervention: The Ayurvedic diagnosis of Kaksha (ABB-12) was made based on signs and symptoms, whereas, as per modern literature, it was diagnosed as HS. Through an integrated approach based on principles of Ayurveda the case was treated by Shastra Karma (surgical procedures) and Shaman Chikitsa (palliative treatment). Outcomes: The wound of the patient healed completely in 1 month and no recurrence was seen after 1 year. Conclusions: In this case, the integrated approach based on principles of Ayurveda helped in complete resolution of the patient complaints and prevented recurrence which is one amongst the major complication seen after the treatment of HS. Hence it is observed that the traditional Ayurveda procedure of Kshara Karma (application of caustics) and Ksharasutra (medicated thread) ligation provided better results in the management of HS.
Background: Viral hepatitis is a liver inflammation caused by a virus, with the most common types being A, B, C, D, and E. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). It is a systemic infection affecting the liver, causing impaired metabolism. Acute Hepatitis A is transmitted almost exclusively by the fecal-oral route. Large outbreaks as well as sporadic cases have been traced to contaminated food, water and milk. Clinical Findings: A 26-year female patient presented with the complaints of yellowish discoloration of urine, stool, eyes, and oral mucosa, along with vomiting, fever for 2 days, which is gradually started with anorexia for 8 days. Interventions: Vasaguluchyadi Kashaya, Patola Katu Rohinyadi Kashaya, Tab. Nirocil, Syp. Amlycure DS, Syp. Kalamegha DS, Avipattikara Churna and Anuloma DS were administered orally. Diet and lifestyle restrictions are advised. Outcome: After 30 days of treatment, marked changes in the subjective and objective parameters were found. Anorexia, abdominal pain, vomiting, giddiness, yellowish eye-oral cavity- urine, and Mala, headache, constipation, fever, weakness were present with moderate to severe intensity. Following treatment, all these symptoms were completely resolved. Biochemical parameters- Total bilirubin changed from 3.1 to 1.2, SGOT 381.5 to 34, SGPT 941.7 to 32, Alkaline phosphatase 190 to 90. Conclusion: Rational use of oral medications with a restricted diet in acute viral hepatitis A shown excellent results within a span of 30 days. This case highlights that the Ayurvedic line of treatment -Pitta Rechana (Cholagogue), Pitta Shamana (Pitta pacification), and Yakritshodhana (liver detox) helps in the effective management of acute viral hepatitis A.
Background – Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare and severe type of psoriasis in which widespread redness and purulent discharge affect most of the body. This form can be life-threatening because it disrupts the skin’s protective barrier and interferes with temperature regulation. The skin often looks like it has severe burns—red, inflamed, and covered with large sheets of peeling scales. Patients may experience extreme itching, burning, or pain, along with dangerous shifts in body temperature. Complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, infections, hair fall, dandruff and even heart failure can occur. Clinical findings – A female of 31 yrs old with generalized erythema, scaling, purulent discharge associated with fever, malaise, pedal oedema and hair & nail involvement with more than 90% affected body by the disease. Intervention – Kaishora Guggulu, Gandhaka Rasayana, Panchatikta Guggulu Ghrita & Neelibringadi Taila for external application, supportive care and dietary modifications. Outcome – There was a significant relief observed within 6 months, erythema, scaling, purulent discharge, itching and other systemic symptoms reduced completely. There was a complete remission in patients’ condition and improvement on follow up. Conclusion – The Ayurvedic Chikitsa provided holistic management of the condition erythrodermic psoriasis, while also reducing the complications, and addressing all the systemic imbalance with resorting the quality of life within 6 months. Keywords - Case report, Psoriasis, Kusta, Erythrodermic, Skin Scaling, Redness, purulent discharge
Background: Hanu Sandhi is considered as a major joint in head area. It is considered a Bahuchala sandhi and is more prone for Vataja disorders. For Hanusandhigata Roga the local therapies described are Hanu Basti and Hanu Pichu. Hanu Pichu is an ayurvedic treatment procedure where a sterile cotton pad dipped in medicated oil is placed on Hanu Sandhi. Despite its traditional relevance in managing conditions such as Hanu Graha, Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, myofascial pain, and local inflammatory states, standardized guidance on its method, indications, and procedural safety remains unclear. A structured narrative mini review was planned to consolidate the available classical knowledge and standardize the operating procedure guidelines. Objective: The goal is to combine classical references with clinical studies to outline a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the practice of Hanu Pichu, and highlight its therapeutic rationale, procedural steps, and mode of action. Methods: A narrative literature review of Bṛihattrayi and Laghutrayi were screened for descriptions related to Pichu and Hanu-roga and Secondary data were collected from peer-reviewed journals, clinical case reports, and institutional SOPs available were collected. Conclusion: Hanu basti and Hanu Pichu are the therapies effective for TMJ disorders, However, Hanu Pichu is a safe, cost-effective, and minimally invasive Ayurvedic intervention for TMJ-related disorders when performed according to standardized guidelines. Hence Hanu Pichu can be a choice of practical and preferable treatment option in routine clinical practice. This structured narrative review provides a consolidated SOP guidelines that highlight its therapeutic rationale, procedural steps, and mode of action.
Background: We report a case of Luta Visha (spider bite) over the forearm, aggravated in 48 hours. This case report documents day-wise typical luta visha (spider bite) presentation and effective management through Ayurveda principles. Clinical findings: The present case presented with a primary complaint of an insect bite, accompanied by painful, spreading vesicular lesions from the wrist to the elbow on her left forearm within 2 days, along with swelling and mild exertional dyspnoea. Intervention: Vilwadi Agada, Dashanga Agada, and Neelitulsyadi Kashaya were prescribed for the initial 7 days to cease the progression of lesions due to their Vishahara, kleda hara, and Rakta Shodhana qualities. Subsequently, Patolakaturohinyadi Kashaya was prescribed to eliminate residual Pitta and Kapha doshas that could lead to kandu and to aid in restoring agni. Outcome: Lesions and developing fever came down by day 7 of treatment, with improvement in appetite. At day 20, there was complete healing without any marks. Conclusion: Concepts of Upashaya-Anupashaya guided and demonstrated considerable clinical improvement in oral medications and topical application, showing the clinical significance of considering guna.
Introduction: In Ayurveda Charmakhya is one among the type of Kshudra Kushta in which there will Twak vaivarnyata like Hasti Charmavat, Khara Sparsha, kandu and Raga are seen. This condition in contemporary science can be compared with Lichen simplex Chronicus based on its signs and symptoms. Charmakhya is mainly caused by vitiation of Tridosha mainly Vata and Kapha dosha along with this there will be vitiation of Rasa, Rakta and Mamsa dhatu. Ayurveda treatment mainly helps in treating the disease from root. Clinical findings: A 33-year-old female visited to Rajashekharaiah Ayurvedic hospital, Bangalore with OPD number 4326 on 16th April 2025, complaints of tvak vaivarnya, specially over bilateral Ankle joint. Accompanied by Kandu (itching), Raga (redness), and Khara Sparsha (rough texture). The symptoms developed gradually and were unresponsive to previous standard treatments. Intervention: Ayurvedic treatment included Deepana-Pachana (strengthening of the stomach), Snehapana (oleation), followed by Abhyanga (body massage), Parisheka (pouring), Virechana (purgation), Matra basti and Shamana Chikitsa (palliative treatment). Outcome: The patient attained Madhyama Shuddhi of Virechana; after Virechana and Shamana chikitsa noticeable improvement in symptoms and a decrease in disease severity. Itching decreased from severe to mild, lichenification markedly reduced, erythema, scaling and pigmentation showed gradual improvement’s, this indicates effective twacha gata dosha and kapha-vata dosha prashamana. Conclusion: Following 26 days of Shodhana and 60 days of Shamana chikitsa, the patient with chronic, non-responsive Charmakhya (Lichen Simplex Chronicus) shown a marked improvement. When Virechana, Matra Basti and Shamanoushadi were used together, the underlying dosha imbalance was successfully corrected without any side effects. These findings imply that Ayurvedic treatments could aid in the creation of more successful treatment plans for these kinds of long-term skin conditions.
Background Avabahuka is one among the Vatavyadhi which affects the Amsa sandhi (Shoulder joint) and causes Shoshana (wasting) of the local binding structures (tendons, ligaments and muscles). This leads to Sankocha (constriction) of local Sira and leads to symptoms like Bahuprasapanditahara (inability to lift the upper limb) and Shoola (pain). Due to its clinical manifestation, it can be correlated with Frozen shoulder (Adhesive capsulitis) where there will be loss of range of movements and pain in the shoulder. Clinical findings Here, a case report of 48 years old female patient with no comorbidities, complaining of severe pain in left shoulder region with stiffness and difficulty to raise the left hand since 1 month, managed with Marma chikitsa and Agnikarma followed by Nasya karma with Anutaila is being described. Outcome Within a week pain and stiffness was reduced with increased range of movements in her left upper limb leading to a better quality of life. Conclusion The treatment approach in the management of Avabahuka has shown significant results in the presenting complaints of the patient within a period of 1 week. Here, Marma chikitsa helped in enhancing the flow of Prana, thereby balancing Vata dosha and also acts in Srotorodha Nivarana. Agnikarma helped to remove the Avarodha from the Srotas caused by vitiated Vata and Kapha. Nasya helps in Vatanulomana and does Srotoshodhana along with Shamana Oushadhis.
Background: The majority of skin conditions in Ayurveda fall under "Kushta". Dadru is a sub-classification of the Kushta. Dadru (Tinea corporis), a skin condition, has become more prevalent in our society in recent years. It is a tridoshaja vyadhi, with a predominance of pitta and kapha doshas. It is a skin condition marked by papules with dark pigmentation and a tendency to spread. Clinical findings: A 55-year-old male presented to the skin OPD with a circular, dry, hyperpigmented active lesion over the chest region and associated with severe itching, symptoms had persisted for the past six months. The lesion had gradually increased in size despite topical cream use. Microscopic examination of skin scrapings revealed fungal elements, confirming the diagnosis of Dadru (Tinea corporis). The condition was managed with only external application of Bilwadi agada and Nalpamradi taila, both applied twice a day for 10 days, followed by only application of Nalpamradi taila twice a day for the next 10 days; thus, had two follow-ups on the 11th and 21st days. Possessing krimighna (antimicrobial), kandughna (anti-pruritic), and vishaghna (detoxifying), Twak-prasadana (skin-brightening) synergistically relieves symptoms of Dadru. By the 21st day, Kandu (itching) and Raga (erythema) reduced to grade 1 (mild), while Pidaka (papular eruptions) and Rookshata (dryness) and Utsanna Mandala (elevated lesions) completely resolved to grade 0. Outcome: Notable improvement in symptoms and the size of the lesion was reduced, restoring the skin to its normal texture and colour and on KOH mount for presence of fungal hyphae microscopic examination of the lesion showed Hyphae absent and no spores indicating clearing of the fungal elements. Conclusion: The external application of Bilwadi agada and Nalpamradi taila significantly reduced symptoms and achieved microbial clearance, thus managing Dadru effectively in 21 days.
Shirassekadi vidhi is a popular book on Keraleeya panchakarma procedures written by Puthiyedath Raman Menon with Malayalam commentary Bhavaprabodhini. The recent edition is published in the year 2009 by Vaidyabhooshanam K. Raghavan Thirumalpad Foundation for Ayurvedic Studies, Raj Vihar, Chalakudy, Thrissur with English annotation by editor, Vaidya M. Prasad. This 80 page work serves as a handbook of Kerala’s speciality procedures like Sirasseka vidhi, Kaya seka vidhi, Pinda sweda vidhi, Anna lepana vidhi, Shirolepna vidhi, Kala vidhi and Snehapana vidhi with detailing on requirements, method of procedure, indications, contraindications and do’s and don’ts. In this review, authors have tried to explore the above procedural details in English to provide wider reachability.
Background: Cadaveric dissection has been central to anatomical learning since the era of Acharya Sushruta, and Voluntary body donations (VBD) are precious gift to the mankind. Body Donation is defined as act of giving one’s body after death for medical research and education. Despite the importance of body donation for medical education and the advancement of medical science, cadaveric donation remains suboptimal. Dissection classes and research are being aborted in many medical courses because of lack of availability of cadavers. Under Anatomy Act of India, the unclaimed bodies have limitations and mostly they are not useful; and the only source of cadavers is the donated bodies but there is paucity of awareness regarding the gracious and ideal act of body donation. Objective: To explore the Ayurvedic, ethical, and educational dimensions of body donation, several active trusts involved in VBD and to analyse its challenges and responsibilities within medical education. Methods: A narrative literature review of Ayurvedic scriptures, ethical policies, and existing body donation frameworks was conducted. Observations were made under classical concepts, modern regulatory aspects, challenges, and Responsibilities. Results: The review highlighted that several active trusts in India — including Dadhichi Deh Dan Samiti, Laksha Trust, Dr. Ramannavar Charitable Trust, and the JSS Body Donation Association - serve as key contributors to donor registration and timely cadaver procurement for medical education. Major barriers to body-donation programmes include limited public awareness, cultural and religious influences, and legal compliance issues, while initiatives integrating community outreach and ethical transparency show promise in improving public acceptance. Conclusion: Body donation represents a unique bridge between ancient Ayurvedic thought and modern anatomical education. Active body-donation trusts significantly support cadaver availability for medical education, but wider participation requires strengthening awareness, institutional policies, and culturally sensitive counselling can significantly improve cadaver access in medical colleges.
Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), chronic metabolic disorder which is associated with insulin resistance and glucose underutilization. Conventional management approaches provide symptomatic relief albeit short-lived, failing to address core metabolic imbalance. Ayurveda identifies correction of Agni (digestive and metabolic) and dosha balance with regimen-based approach (Ahara-Vihara) individualized to person as a key strategy. This case-series provides details outcome of integrated dietary and yogic protocol in patients with poorly controlled T2DM. Methods: Five patients of uncontrolled T2DM were provided with personalized Ayurveda based dietary regimen along with therapeutic yogamodules for period of 24-weeks. Diet was Prakriti-based and customised to food availability and patients glycemic status to include low-glycemic foods, nutritional millets, culinary herbs, herbal drinks and therapeutic time restricted eating. Yoga-based therapeutic lifestyle involved practice of 60-minutes guided training modules involving asana-pranayamaand relaxation techniques. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), glycated-hemoglobin (HbA1C), Insulin levels, Homa-IR, weight, BMI (Body Mass Index) and waist circumference were recorded. Results: Improvement was reported across multiple clinical, biochemical and metabolic domains related to glycemic control which includes HbA1c, FBS, PPBS, Fasting Insulin, HOMA-IR, weight, BMI and waist circumference among 5-participants over a period of 24 weeks. 2 patients able to discontinue insulin, 1 patient achieved drug free diabetes control while 1 female patient with a history of repeated spontaneous abortions conceived and delivered healthy full-term baby. Patients also experienced weight reduction, improved digestion, appetite and sleep as well as improved physical and mental stability. Conclusion: Incorporating Ayurvedic dietary principles with practice of yoga showed marked improvement of glycemic status and insulin sensitivity in patients of T2DM. This holistic non-pharmacologic approach provides safe, effective, sustainable and individualized treatment strategy consistent with Ayurvedic principles of metabolic correction. Large scale clinical trials needed to validate findings of study.
Background: Menstruation, though being a physiological process, it is also influenced by social, cultural and personal practices. Rajaswala Paricharya is an Ayurvedic code of conduct outlining do’s and don’ts observed by women during menstruation. Despite growing interest, quantitative association between menstrual restrictions and reproductive health are underexplored. There is a gap of large-scale surveys integrating socio-demographic factors like education, rural-urban divides and socio-economic status. Exploration of such association through mixed-method approaches can triangulate the cultural beliefs with statistical evidence. Theoretically it has been revealed that non-adherence of restrictions are linked with oxidative stress and hormonal imbalances causing PCOS and infertility but lack validation through studies in diverse populations. Methods: Questionnaire after validation was used with mixed methodology approach for in depth interviews and focus group discussions with adult female in Anand District of Gujarat, India. Total 59 in depth interviews, 15 focus group discussions (8 to 10 participants in each), 460 female surveys. MS Excel was used for descriptive statistics and Pearson’s chi square test through SPSS software for further statistical analysis. Results: Socio cultural restrictions like prohibition from entering kitchen 62.1% and restricted diet significantly influenced reproductive health (p<0.05) for associations with chronic illness, menstrual disorders and illness in progeny. Qualitative themes highlighted the need for rest and seclusion and considered as health promoting. Conclusion: Using mixed methodology integrating qualitative and quantitative data for understanding the importance and impact of menstrual practices is the key highlight of the study. Association between certain menstrual practices and reproductive health outcomes were identified as statistically significant in quantitative data analysis. Amongst the qualitative narratives during discussions and interviews, the need for rest, seclusion and dietary restrictions were professed as health promoting behavior. To reassess the menstrual practices through scientific lens is emphasized by mixed method findings.
Background: Diabetic foot ulcer is a frequent complication of diabetic mellitus that constitutes a considerable burden in terms of direct medical expenditures, as well as prolonged hospital stays and disability periods. Clinical findings: This case report presents a foot ulcer of traumatic onset, in a 60-year-old male with a long history of type 2 diabetes mellitus. He was initially unaware about the ulcer till foul smell started to appear and presented to the out patient department of Shalya Tantra with a big ulcer at the foot with blackish discoloraion. It was diagnosed as a Madhumehajanya Vrana (diabetic foot ulcer). Intervention: After careful clinical evaluation, an integrative treatment plan including surgical wound debridement, medicinal leech therapy, wound care with Ayurvedic remedies, offloading using plaster casts, and a combination of Ayurvedic and allopathic medications for diabetes management was planned. Outcome: Gradually there was a significant reduction in infection, improved wound appearance, and complete healing achieved within 13 weeks. No adverse reactions were reported during the treatment, and no recurrence was observed throughout the 31 month follow-up period. Conclusion: Four week old diabetic foot ulcer of wagner grade 04, was successfully managed through a multidisciplinary approach that integrating Ayurvedic and allopathic wound care principles, thereby avoiding amputation. This case highlights the potential of integrating Ayurvedic and conventional approaches in diabetic foot ulcer management. Randomized controlled clinical trials, comparative clinical trials and black box study designs can be conducted to substantiate these findings.
Background: Choroidal osteoma, a rare benign intraocular tumor characterized by mature bone replacing the choroid, often leads to vision loss due to complications like choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and subretinal fluid. Conventional anti-VEGF injections often face symptom recurrence. Case: A 47-year-old female presented on June 16, 2023, with progressive vision loss in her right eye since 2013, confirmed as peripapillary choroidal osteoma with subretinal fluid and CNV via fundoscopy and OCT. Intervention: After recurrent symptoms/side effects from anti-VEGF injections, Ayurvedic management began in June 2023, classifying the condition as ‘Dwiteeya Patalagata Kaphaja Timira’. Treatments included oral medicines (e.g., Kanjanara guggulu, Varanadi kashayam) and external therapies (e.g., Seka [eyewash], Vidalaka [medicated-paste to eyelids], Tarpanam [medicated-ghee retention over eyes]) targeting Kapha imbalance and vitiated Dhatus. Outcome: Ayurvedic management improved visual acuity, reduced sub-retinal fluid (SRF) and prevented CNV recurrence. Vision remained stable at the January 2025 follow-up. Conclusion: This case suggests Ayurvedic management is a potential complementary approach for choroidal osteoma, though larger studies are needed confirm effectiveness due single-case limitations.
Background: Virechana (therapeutic purgation) is one of the Shodhana procedures with multiple alternatives for carrying out Virechana, which leads to ambiguity in selection of disease-specific medicine, and hence, limited use of medicines. Aim: The present review thus, aims to analyze the drug-disease specificity, with primary reference to the Chikitsa Sthana of Charaka Samhita, a principal text in the domain of therapeutics. Methods and materials- The Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana is screened manually. Virechana drugs are considered for review, on the basis of disease use, form of medication for Virechana and other purposes. The rationale behind drug selection and the form of drug, its pharmacological, pharmaceutical aspects, is scrutinized based on the proven studies by following a search strategy, from PubMed, Google Scholar, PubMed Central. Results: Total references for Virechana in Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana are 91, where specific condition is mentioned in 43 references. Drugs used for Virechana are 22. 17 different forms of Virechana medicines are mentioned in Chikitsa Sthana. The total articles studied were 51 in number. Triphala is the commonest (119 times) drug mentioned. It is also proven as safe drug, due to its peristaltic-soothing qualities, along with purgation. Other drug used for Virechana extensively, is Haritaki(55 times). Foremost action proven by Virechana drugs is anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity. Though anti-inflammatory activity is proven of 11 drugs, the specificity of Draksha to Kaasa, i.e. respiratory system inflammations, Haritaki to Arsha, Trayamana to inflammations related to fever is evident. Neelini and Trivrut act better on renal system related inflammations, alongwith ascites; while Indravaruni is indicated in immunocompromised or autoimmune skin conditions, and Dravanti in microbe-induced skin problems. Conclusion: This review, therefore, provides a systematic appraisal of suitability, diversity, modality of disease-specific Virechana drugs; inducing a suitable decision during clinical practice.
Background: Obesity is currently one of the biggest health challenges, worldwide. In the absence of safe and effective drugs for the management of obesity, herbo-mineral formulations were mentioned in Bharat Bhaishajya Ratnakar. Obesity is similar to Sthaulya or Medoroga described in Ayurvedic classical texts. Aim and Objectives: To study formulations in Bharat Bhaishajya Ratnakar for Medoroga (Sthaulya) and to compile classical formulations for their therapeutic significance and identify frequently used herbs. Materials and Methodology: All five volumes of Bharat Bhaishajya Ratnakar were systematically reviewed, using terms such as “Sthaulya,” “Medoroga,” and “Obesity.” A total of 34 formulations with 123 medicinal substances were documented. Results: In Analysis 11 herbs are Amalaki, Haritaki, Bibhitaki, Chitraka, Shunthi, Pippali, Maricha, Vidanga, Nagarmotha, Elaichi, and Guggulu, most repeated across formulations. These herbs possess Deepana (digestive stimulant), Lekhana (fat-reducing), and Medohara (obesity-reducing) properties. Conclusion: The review highlights a group of herbs that are consistently given in Bharat Bhaishajya Ratnakar, underlining their importance in traditional practice and their potential for evidence-based integration into modern anti-obesity strategies.
Background: Arshas (Haemorrhoids) is a commonly prevalent anorectal disease. Thrombosis is acute complication that occurs in haemorrhoids due to increased venous pressure, causing venous rupture and clot formation which requires immediate treatment, but there is a problem in selecting conservative or surgical management as both have their drawbacks. Raktaavsechana (bloodletting) is a procedure mentioned by Acharya Vagbhata for managing Arshas with this complication. Case report: A 38 year old patient came to our OPD having complaints of severe pain in anal region along with tender mass and discomfort in anal region. He was unable to pass flatus for the past 3 days. A local examination of perianal region showed a single purple, dark, congested, tender and firm mass extending from 6 to 7 o’clock position. Intervention: After the examination and history, the case was diagnosed as Raktaj Arsha (EE-3.7) as per Ayurveda and Thrombosed External Haemorrhoids (THE) according to modern science. Patient was managed by Jalaukaavcharan (Leech therapy), followed by Haridra churna (Curcuma longa powder) bandaging. Outcomes: Clinically patient showed significant reduction in VAS, VDS pain Scores levels to 0/10 by the 3rd day, and biomarker i.e, IL6 levels from 15.462 pg/ml to 0 pg/ml. Conclusion: In the present case, Jalukaavcharan has shown crucial outcomes as it exhibited analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity which are observed as clinical symptoms were resolved as well as biomarker IL6 levels reduced, offering a robust evidence and its relevance in the current anorectal care as a potential noninvasive procedure for the integration in the treatment of painful anorectal disease (TEH).
Background: Fistula-in-ano is a chronic morbid condition, usually associated with high recurrence and sphincter injuries with the conventional surgical approach. This is a unique case because of the successful outcome of the integrated approach of modern surgeries (Fistulotomy and Fistulectomy) and Ayurvedic Ksharasutra therapy, and demonstrates a patient-centered, multidisciplinary, integrated clinical approach, with preservation of the sphincter with enhanced and speedy post-procedural healing. Clinical Findings: A 57-year-old male laborer presented with chief complaints of pain, swelling, intermittent pus-draining wound near the anal region for 8 years. He had undergone two previous similar episodes, and incision and drainage were done in the past. Examination revealed three external openings at 7 o’clock, 8 o’clock, and 11 o’clock and an internal opening at 7 o’clock, with a high trans-sphincteric tract, swan neck type. Intervention: Fistulotomy and Fistulectomy were done for drainage and bland excision of the tract, followed by Ksharasutra ligation of the residual tract. Post-operative management includes intravenous antibiotics and analgesics, Internal ayurvedic medications (Triphala Guggulu, Gandhaka Rasayana, Avipattikara Churna), and Local Jatyadi Taila dressing. Ksharasutra was changed weekly, and the patient followed up regularly. Outcomes: Complete healing of the wound was achieved by the 35th Day; in addition to no post-procedural complications or recurrence were reported. Post-treatment, no discomfort was observed, and overall satisfaction was present, with preserved sphincter function. Conclusion: A chronic high trans-sphincteric fistula-in-ano was successfully managed through an integrated approach combining Fistulectomy, Fistulotomy, and Ayurvedic Ksharasutra therapy with internal and external medications. The integrative plan facilitated faster wound healing, complete sphincter preservation, and recurrence-free recovery. This case highlights the potential of a safe, effective, and evidence-based multidisciplinary protocol as a reproducible management option for complex high trans-sphincteric fistula-in-ano.
Background: Perinatal anxiety and depression are frequent but underrecognized disorders of maternal mental health resulting in quality-of-life impairment and breastfeeding complications. Such conditions in Ayurveda are cognized as Manasika vyadhi rajas prakopa and Tamas prakopa. Case presentation: A 28-year-old primiparous female presented with the complaints of persistent fear, agitation, disturbed sleep, excessive worry, fatigue and maternal low confidence in breastfeeding. The severity was checked by assessment scales: HAM-A 24, HAM-D 22, ISI 19, Ashtavibhrama and impaired WHOQOL-BREF domains. DSM-5 introduced a perinatal anxiety and depression diagnosis. Intervention: Intervention consisted of Integrated protocol, Murdhni Taila (Shirodhara, Shirotalam and Shiropichu with Brahmi Taila), oral medication (Manasmitra Vati, Brahmi vati, Saraswatarishta and Agnitundivati), yoga (Nadi Shodhana, Bhramari, Om chanting) planned in stage wise manner along with Satwawajayachikitsa counselling. Following concurrent therapy and 19 counselling sessions. Outcomes: There were observed gradual improvements in more than three months. The scores were minimized to HAM-A (Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale) 7, HAM-D (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale) 6, ISI (Insomnia Severity Index) 6, Ashtavibhrama 0 and WHOQOL-BREF (World Health Organisation Quality of Life- Brief Version) came close to the normal levels. The patient rebuild confidence in breastfeeding and stability. Conclusion: An Ayurvedic intervention strategy that integrates external therapies with internal formulations, yoga and counselling proved to be very beneficial in perinatal anxiety and depression that favours maternal well-being and successful breastfeeding.
