Mootravikara encompasses a range of conditions that affect the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and other components of the urinary tract. In Kerala, a region renowned for its rich Ayurvedic heritage, several classical texts provide detailed descriptions of single-drug therapies for the management of urinary ailments. This scoping review aims to systematically explore and analyze the single-drug therapies for urinary disorders as described in prominent Kerala Ayurvedic texts. Fifteen textbooks authored by Keralite physicians were reviewed, along with research papers from peer-reviewed journals indexed in PubMed, Scopus, or Google Scholar, to gather evidence supporting Ayurvedic treatments for Mootravikara. A total of 197 single-drug therapies and 53 single drugs are documented in Kerala Ayurvedic textbooks. Most of the drugs exhibit diuretic, antiurolithiatic, nephroprotective, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities supporting their application in the management of Mootravikara. These findings enhance the understanding of Ayurvedic approaches to urinary disorders and highlight areas for future research to validate and promote the use of Ayurvedic single-drug therapies for urinary disorders in clinical settings.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a prevalent microvascular diabetic complication characterized by distal nerve dysfunction in a length-dependent pattern, affecting the toes and foot, gradually progressing to the ankle and proximal regions over time. The beneficial effects of yoga and naturopathy on diabetes are well established. However, the studies investigating their long-term effects of yoga and naturopathy on diabetic neuropathy are scarce. A 54-year-old female was admitted as an inpatient with complaints of partial numbness of both the soles and feet, radiating proximally. These symptoms were accompanied by deep aching, burning, and tingling sensations. During her hospital stay, we implemented a treatment protocol that integrated Yoga and Naturopathy and a plant-based raw diet. Following her intervention, her fasting and postprandial blood glucose, serum cholesterol levels, symptom scores on the Douleur Neuropathique 4 questionnaire, and self-Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs questionnaire showed improvement. These outcomes indicate better glycemic control and a reduction in DPN symptoms, thereby potentially preventing further complications.
Pilonidal sinus (PNS) is considered an acquired, infective condition often involving foreign body reaction, which closely resembles Shalyajanya Nadi vrana as per Acharya Sushruta. It commonly afflicts individuals in their 2nd and 3rd decades of life and notably prevalent among heavy motor vehicle drivers. The optimal treatment remains excision of the sinus tract; however, recurrence is frequent due to incomplete identification and drainage of the sinus tract, residual hair, or inadequate post-operative care. Here, we are reporting the case of a 22-year-old male with a 2-year history of pain, swelling, and intermittent pus discharge from the lower back (Natal cleft). He was diagnosed with a case of Shalyaja Nadivrana (PNS). He was managed using an integrative approach combining Chedana (excision) of Nadivrana (sinus) and regular post-operative wound care with Panchvalkal Kwath and Panchvalkal Malhara for topical application. Complete healing was observed within 45 days, and no recurrence was noted in 1 year follow-up period. This case highlights the effectiveness of an integrative approach in managing Shalyaja Nadivrana and in preventing its recurrence.
Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is distinguished by abnormality in kidney structure or function that persists for over 3 months. It is a multifaceted condition that leads to impaired kidney function and can progress to end-stage kidney disease. Complementary and alternative medicine, such as yoga and naturopathy (YN), has demonstrated effectiveness in treating and preventing a number of conditions associated with CKD. This study aims to investigate the impact of YN on renal function and quality of life (QoL) in individuals with CKD. Materials and Methods: Twenty-six individuals diagnosed with CKD underwent YN-based lifestyle intervention for the period of 30 days. Assessments such as urea, creatinine, fasting blood sugar (FBS), postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), hemoglobin, and Kidney Disease Quality of Life 36-Item Short Form Survey (KDQOL-36) were done before and after the intervention. Results: Results of the study showed a significant reduction in urea, creatinine, FBS, and PPBS and a significant increase in hemoglobin levels and KDQOL-36 scores among study participants after the intervention period. Conclusion: YN-based lifestyle interventions help to improve renal functions and QoL in patients with CKD by reducing urea, creatinine, and blood glucose levels and by increasing Hb levels. However, the limited sample size and absence of a control group restrict the scope of this study. Hence, further randomized controlled trials with a larger sample size are recommended to validate the results of the study.
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory spondyloarthropathy, which involves the sacroiliac joints primarily, along with the axial skeleton and their adjacent soft tissues including tendons and ligaments. The prevalence of AS in India is approximately 6% as per the surveys conducted from 2004 to 2010 by the Bone and Joint Decade – India. In Ayurveda, due to its similarities in its clinical presentation, it can be correlated with Aamavata. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the only choice for management in modern medicine. Due to the nonavailability of satisfactory treatment, there is a need for alternative options in other medical systems. This is a single case study of a 29-year-old male patient presenting with complaints of pain and stiffness in the neck and back region for 6 years, associated with the pain in the hip region for 3 years. He was diagnosed with AS (Aamavata), for which he underwent Panchakarma and Ayurvedic treatment. The “Bath AS Disease Activity Index” (BASDAI), “Bath AS Disease Metrology Index” (BASMI), “Bath AS Disease Functional Index” (BASFI), Bath AS Global Score (BAS-G), and AS Quality of Life Scale (ASQoL) scales were reduced to 2, 4, 4.8, 3.5, and 1, respectively, after the follow-up. The collected data from this study indicates that, Ayurvedic treatment, including Shamana medication along with Panchakarma procedures, increased the range of motion, maintained postural functionality without any adverse effects and markedly improved the quality of life.
This case study is about a 33-year-old multiparous with a blood pressure (BP) of 140/90 mmHg and a urine protein level of 30 mg/dl. The first-trimester nuchal translucency scan with Doppler showed an increased pulsatility index value in the left uterine artery along with diastolic notching, suggesting early onset of preeclampsia. The patient was managed with a protocol-based, holistic approach that included samana aushadhis (pacifying therapy), yogic sukshma vyayama, Pranayama, raga chikitsa (music therapy), and pathya ahara vihara (wholesome diet, activities, and behavioral regimens). As a result, her BP was maintained within normal limits throughout pregnancy. Repeat Doppler velocimetry at the 20th and 37th weeks was normal. An apparently healthy pregnancy was carried out till term, and lower segment cesarean section (CS) was performed due to previous CS delivery.
Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease that, when it affects our joints, makes us feel as though life is a curse. Sandhigata Vata, vis-à-vis OA is a multifactorial, degenerative, non-inflammatory joint condition. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ayurvedic medicine (Trayodasanga Guggulu and Sahacaradi Taila) in knee OA. Materials and Methods: Patients (n = 120) diagnosed with knee OA, based on revised ACR 2016 criteria and Ayurvedic signs and symptoms, were randomly divided into two groups. Group A received Trayodasanga Guggulu 1000 mg twice daily and local application (abhyanga) of Sahacaradi Taila twice daily. Group B received tablet naproxen 500 mg twice daily, local application of naproxen gel twice daily. The intervention was for 63 days. Assessments were through western Ontario and McMaster University OA (WOMAC) score, Ayurveda subjective parameters, visual analog scale, range of motion (Goniometry), World Health Organization Quality of life (WHOQOL) BREF questionnaire which were assessed at baseline, 3rd, 6th, and 9th weeks. Biological parameters such as serum calcium, serum Vitamin D3, and bone mineral density along with safety parameters such as aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, blood urea, and creatinine were assessed at baseline and 9th week. Results: Both the interventions produced similar improvements in both primary and secondary assessment parameters. Both the interventions produced a significant reduction in WOMAC and most of the secondary parameters. All domains of the WHOQOL BREF improved with the Ayurvedic interventions. Both interventions had good safety profiles, assessed through safety parameters and lack of adverse effects. Conclusion: Trayodasanga Guggulu and local application of Sahacaradi Taila showed comparable efficacy in the management of Knee OA. Ayurveda interventions add to the effective management strategies of Knee OA.
Background: Ayurvedic interventions have proven to be effective in reducing symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Objective: The present study has the primary objective to develop, validate the Ayurveda-based dosha-vikrti scale for assessment of patients with remitting MS (RRMS). Secondary objective was to evaluate the effect of Ayurveda intervention on vikrti status of the MS patients. Methodology: The Vikriti scale for the assessment of MS (MSVS) was developed based on 3 authentic texts of traditional Ayurveda texts and content validation was done by the Delphi method. Ten Ayurveda clinicians and one neurologist validated the scale items, and one psychologist reviewed the formatting of MSVS. Test–retest reliability of MSVS was assessed through a feasibility study that was conducted to look at the effect of add-on Ayuryoga in 60 patients of RRMS. Results: The final version of VSMS consists of 15 items, divided into three subscales: Vata (6 items), pitta (4), and kapha (4). Content validity was confirmed through the Delphi method. Cronbach’s alpha was above 0.8 for all 3 subscales of vata, pitta, and kapha. Reliability checked by correlation with the items on MS symptom scale (MSSS), a standard tool for the assessment of patients, showed a significant positive correlation (0.6–0.9). The feasibility study conducted on 60 participants with RRMS showed a significant reduction in scores on both MSVS and MSSS. Conclusion: The MSVS scale developed is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring vikrti in MS patients. The Ayuryoga intervention significantly reduces the dosha vikrti.
Skin disorders are prevalent health issues that can lead to significant physical discomfort and psychological distress. In Ayurveda, Kushta encompasses a broad spectrum of skin diseases, characterized by the involvement of multiple body tissues and doshas. This case report discusses the Ayurvedic approach in managing a chronic case of Kushta. A patient presented with chronic skin lesions consistent with Kushta, experiencing symptoms such as discoloration and discomfort. The condition had persisted despite previous treatments, significantly affecting the patient’s quality of life. The patient underwent a comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment regimen, including both Shamana (palliative) and Shodhana (purificatory) therapies. Over the course of treatment, significant improvements were observed in skin appearance and symptom relief, with no reported adverse effects. This case highlights the potential effectiveness of traditional Ayurvedic interventions in managing chronic skin conditions like Kushta. Further studies may explore the integration of such approaches into broader dermatological practice.
Pleomorphic liposarcoma is the rarest subtype of liposarcoma, targeting fat cells in the deep soft tissues. It is a high-grade sarcoma of lipogenic origin. These tumors are typically large and bulky and tend to have multiple smaller satellite lesions that extend beyond the main confines of the tumor. This sarcoma has a tendency for local recurrence and carries a high risk of metastasis. It accounts for 5-10% of all liposarcomas. Research studies have found that this disease has a 5-year survival rate of <60%. Due to its rarity, knowledge of Ayurvedic management and its prognosis is limited. Hence, we present a rare case involving a 79-year-old male patient who visited Rasayu Cancer Clinic, Pune, with a history of pleomorphic liposarcoma in both thighs and liver metastasis secondary to pleomorphic liposarcoma. He reported symptoms such as abdominal pain, loss of appetite, general weakness, and intermittent loose stools. Based on Ayurvedic assessment parameters, we initiated antimalignant Rasayana therapy, which resulted in significant symptomatic relief and showed potential for complete regression of liver lesions. This case illustrates the possible potential of Ayurvedic therapy in the management of pleomorphic liposarcoma.
Kadara (corn), mentioned under Kshudra rogas (minor ailments) is a clinical condition closely associated with the lesions of the skin caused by hyperkeratosis. This illness seems trivial, but when neglected, it gradually increases the suffering. Foot corn, with simple etiopathology, is often difficult to attain a complete cure with a high recurrence tendency. Utkartana (excision), followed by Snehadahana (thermal cauterization by unctuous substances), is the treatment principle for Kadara in Ayurveda. In the present case report, a 26-year-old male patient visited the outpatient department and presented with complaints of pain in the left sole of the foot for 2 months. Based on the clinical presentations, the condition was diagnosed as Kadara. Initially, Utkartana Karma was performed, followed by Snehadahana in the form of Vrana Basti (therapeutic retention of oil over the wound) with Kaseesadi taila and Vrana bandana (wound bandaging) with Jatyadi taila. The procedure was carried out for 5 days, and a follow-up was done after an interval of 1 month. There was complete healing of the wound with no pain or recurrence reported during the follow-up period. Further studies, including RCTs, are necessary to substantiate these findings and assess the long-term efficacy of this treatment approach in a broader population.
Here, we are presenting a case of meningomyelocele, a severe form of spina bifida. It results from the nonclosure of the caudal end of the neural tube. It is an open neural tube defect (NTD) characterized by the protrusion of the meninges and spinal cord through a bifid spine defect in the lower thoracolumbar region associated with hydrocephalus and kyphoscoliosis comorbidities. We are discussing this case from anatomical perspectives. Understanding anatomy, embryogenesis, and genetic components helps to identify and diagnose the different NTDs. This case highlights the importance of early detection and intervention, coupled with the need for preconceptional education and comprehensive parental genetic counseling involving risks and options for future planning.
Vulval pruritus is accompanied by pathological skin changes that adversely affect the quality of life among women. Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) is one of the common causes of vulval pruritus among menopausal women. With conventional therapeutic approaches, it is difficult to treat the condition and the treatment is also not cost effective for the patient. Treatment of vulval pruritus often requires to be taken for a long duration which may lead to the emergence of side effects of various conventional medicines. Medicinal leech therapy is one of the oldest techniques to relieve chronic inflammation, enhancing the vascular perfusion of tissue and leading to tissue repair. In classical texts of Ayurveda, Jalaukavacharanam is also an effective treatment modality in treating Kandu, i.e. pruritus. Jalaukavacharanam, medicinal leech therapy, is a safe and effective treatment modality for the treatment of vulval pruritus dermatitis and conditions like LSC causing intense pruritus vulvae with special reference to its Kitibha-like appearance. A postmenopausal woman when treated with this modality showed visible results without the use of any conventional treatment.
Sarcoidosis is a systemic disorder that is one of the interstitial lung diseases characterized by granulomatous inflammation of organs, commonly, the lungs. The condition manifests with unknown origin and various pathologies. Several conventional managements such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and anti-fibrotic agents are under practice but not very comprehensive and the most bothersome side effects include weight gain, fluid retention, high blood pressure, depression, confusion, etc., Hence, it requires an effective treatment, by understanding the root cause of the disease, managing the condition, and improving the quality of life of the patients. A 52-year-old female, diagnosed case of sarcoidosis of the lung, approached Kayachikita outpatient department, with chief complaints of dry cough for 3 years and generalized weakness and headache for 1 year. The case was analyzed in terms of Vataja Kasa due to various similarities and managed with Sadyovirechana, Basti, and various Shamanoushadhis along with proper diet.
Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a multisystem autoimmune disorder caused by unknown factors. It is considered as a distinct clinical presentation because of the presence of high anti-U1 ribonucleoprotein (anti-U1 RNP) antibodies. The prevalence rate is four times less than that of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), indicating an overall prevalence of 10/100,000.It is characterized by a combination of clinical features of SLE, polymyositis, systemic sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. A 36-year-old homemaker diagnosed with MCTD came to the outpatient department, which was managed by the treatment principles of vatarakta (connective tissue disorder in Ayurveda) and kushtha (disease of skin in Ayurveda). Virechana (Therapeutic laxative procedure in Ayurveda) along with oral medications were given for 7 days. The quality of life has been improved within 7 days of treatment. Inflammatory markers erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein and Visual Analog Scale for itching showed significant reduction.
Background: Padadari (cracked feet) is a common problem with a high incidence and recurrence rate. In adolescents, obesity, malnutrition, poverty, barefoot walking, standing for a long time on hard floors, and neglect of self-care contribute to the development of Padadari. Aims: This study aimed to assess the effect of Sarala niryasa (pine resin), a folklore remedy for cracked feet in Uttarakhand, on adolescents suffering from Padadari. Material and Methods: In this within-individual study, 12 adolescents in the age group of 10–19 years enrolled by convenient sampling served as their controls. The control foot was assigned Siktha taila (sesame oil and bee wax warmed together) and the trial foot was assigned Sarala niryasa malahara (pine resin ointment) in a double-blind, randomized manner. Each drug was applied on the assigned foot every day twice for 1 month and data was collected on the 7th, 15th, and 30th days of the trial. Student’s paired t-tests for pre- and postanalysis and repeated measures ANOVA for within the group analysis were used, and unpaired t-test was used for comparing the trial and control groups. Results: Complete clearance of the index crack in the trial group was achieved in a mean of 16 days, while in the control group, it was 27 days. The trial group had a cure rate of 92% while the control group’s cure rate was 75%. Conclusions: Ointment in comparison to its vehicle was more effective in relieving the condition within a shorter duration of time corroborating the folkloric use of pine resin in the condition.
