Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine (JAHM)

Drugs used for Virechana (therapeutic purgation) from Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana- A narrative review

2025-09-27T07:18:25+00:00

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.

Relevance of Astrology in Balachikitsa: A Review in Ayurvedic context

2025-10-01T07:03:45+00:00

Background: The holistic approach of Ayurveda explains the enormous influence of nature on human beings. This divine healing science has an in-depth relation with astrology as it deals with the influences of planets on human beings. Acharya Sushruta explains the influence of Soma, Surya, and Anila to that of Kapha, Pitta, and Vata. The mutual relationship between man and nature is also well explained through Lokapurusha Sidhanta by our Acharyas. Astrological evidence can be seen in various treatment aspects of Balaroga. Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa is one of the psycho-somatic approaches of treatments explained in our classics. Role of Pushya Nakshatra in Pumsavana (the procedure to obtain a healthy child), influences of various Grahas in the wellbeing of a Kumara (child), role of Prajapatya constellation in the context of Annaprasha Samskara, etc. establishes the strong relation of astrology in Bala chikitsa. This review focuses on the astrological methods explained in Ayurveda and their influence on the growth as well as developmental aspects of a child. Objective: To understand the relevance of astrology in Balachikitsa with special reference to Ayurveda. Materials and methods: Literature Screening was done on the available published literature related to Astrology, Jyotisha Sastra and Daivavyapashraya chikitsa. A manual search was also done in Ayurveda Samhithas and Ancient Astrology textbooks. Conclusion: Adapting the ancient astrological techniques in ayurveda will help in identifying and treating the diseases of unknown origin. This valuable science can be implemented for the wellbeing of a child. Astrological methods can be considered as a part of Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa in Ayurveda

Review of Ayurvedic Classical Formulations for Medoroga (Sthaulya) from Bharat Bhaishajya Ratnakar.

2025-09-26T15:52:33+00:00

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.

Pharmaceutical Analysis and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (Gc-Ms) Profiling of Phytoconstituents in Jatamansyadi Taila for Potential Use in Neurobehavioral and Neurodevelopmental Conditions

2025-09-25T05:56:35+00:00

Background: Jatamansyadi Taila is a unique Ayurveda formulation mentioned in Sushruta Samhita derived from Aparajithayoga, mentioned in Amanushopasarga Pratisedha Adhyaya of Uttarasthana. It is indicated in the management of Manasa rogas like Unmada (neurobehavioral disorders), Apasmara(epilepsy) and Graha doshadi sarva vikaras (psychosis & psychosomatic disorders) with a principal focus of this study being on Unmada roga (neurobehavioral disorders). This relatively unexplored formulation is prepared based on the principle of Yukti by selecting specific drugs from the Yoga. Aim: To understand the potential therapeutic efficacy of identified phytoconstituents and its underlying mechanisms in managing neurobehavioral conditions. Materials & Methods: Jatamansyadi Taila was tested for its safety and suitability for administering in patients using parameters such as physicochemical parameters, organoleptic characteristics and microbial limit test. Instrumental analysis using GC-MS was carried out to detect the presence of phytoconstituents in Jatamansyadi Taila. Results & Discussion: GC-MS analysis revealed 32 phytoconstituents, among which ten showed major peak areas reported as 1,6,10-Dodecatrien-3-ol, 3,7,11-trimetl , Asarone , 1,3a-Ethano(1H)inden-4-ol, Octadecanoic acid, 3-[(1-oxohexadecyl, Hexadecanoic acid, 2-[(1-oxododecyl), 9-Octadecen-1-ol, (Z)- Myristic acid vinyl ester ,Stigmasta-3,5-diene, Glycerol 2-acetate 1,3-dipalmitate and (+)-Sesamin. Among these, several constituents possess neuroprotective actions supporting Ayurveda’s approach in managing neurobehavioral disorders. Conclusion: The present study provides preliminary analytical data of Jatamansyadi Taila on organoleptic, physicochemical and microbial parameters. As this formulation is not mentioned either in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API) or in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI), thus the outcomes of Jatamansyadi Taila serve as preliminary analytical benchmarks for future standardization. Furthermore, this study helps in contributing to the validation of classical Ayurveda’s approach in managing various neurobehavioral conditions.

Ayurvedic Management of Choroidal Osteoma: A Case Report

2025-07-05T11:45:38+00:00

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.

Integrated Treatment Approach in the Management of Complex High Trans-Sphincteric Fistula-in-Ano (Bhagandara): A Case Report

2025-11-05T11:27:00+00:00

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.

Comprehensive Ayurvedic Management of Hepatic Fibrosis (Grade III): A Case Report

2025-10-19T12:04:14+00:00

Background: The prevalence of hepatic fibrosis is increasing worldwide, with significant geographic variation. It is necessary to better understand the risk factors and how to prevent and mitigate the disease worldwide to combat the advanced stage of fibrosis and its complications. In conventional treatment, targeting the underlying cause is often insufficient, and there is non-specific drug delivery, resulting in failure of antifibrotic drugs. Clinical findings: A 33-year-old male patient complained of general weakness, indigestion, loss of appetite, and distension of the abdomen. Radiological findings revealed Grade III hepatic fibrosis, and biochemical investigations showed abnormalities in lipid profile and altered liver enzyme levels. Intervention: He was treated with Sarphonka Swaras Ghan, Bhoomi Amla Swaras Ghan, Liv52 HB, Hridton, Triglize, and Haritaki Churna for five months, along with Diet and lifestyle modifications. Outcome: After five months of treatment, marked improvement was seen in appetite, fatigue level, digestion, and bowel habits. Liver was normal in size, contour, and echotexture (Grade III fatty infiltration before treatment) in Ultrasonography of the whole abdomen, and reduced from moderate (Grade III [F3]) to mild hepatic fibrosis(Grade I [F1]) in liver elastography (Metavir value-10.90 Kpa to 5.0 Kpa). Conclusion: A case of Hepatic fibrosis was effectively treated, associated with improvement through Ayurveda. The findings suggest the effectiveness and good safety tolerance of Ayurvedic interventions in managing hepatic fibrosis. This case report highlights the potential of using Ayurvedic treatment in larger-scale clinical studies for hepatic fibrosis.

Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Jalaukaavcharan (Leech Therapy) in Raktaj Arsha (Thrombosed Hemorrhoids): A case report based Biomarker Analysis

2025-10-20T11:16:13+00:00

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 3^rd 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).

Integrative Ayurvedic approach to Perinatal Anxiety and Depression with Improved Breastfeeding Practices: A case report

2025-10-14T06:40:10+00:00

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.

Multidiscipliary approach of Ayurveda and conventional principles in the management of diabetic foot ulcer - DFU: A Case Report

2025-11-04T05:38:35+00:00

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.

Effectiveness of Vadavanala Vati as an adjunct in the Management of Hypothyroidism: An Open Label, Single Arm Clinical Study

2025-09-08T07:27:03+00:00

Background and objectives: Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid disorder, with a prevalence of 4-5 % in developed countries and 10.5% in India. In Ayurveda, the disease can be understood in the light of dosha (humors), dushya (bodily constituents), agni (digestive fire) and srotas (channels). The signs and symptoms match with the description of agnimandya (suboptimal digestive fire) at the level of koshta (alimentary tract) and dhatus (tissues). Hence treatment could be focused on agni deepana (improving the digestive fire) at the level of koshta and dhatu especially rasa dhatu. For this purpose, Vadavanala vati is selected, which contains ingredients such as saindhava (rock salt), pippali (Piper longum L.), pippali moola (root of Piper longum L), chavya (Piper chaba Hunter), chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica L.), nagara (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) and haritaki (Terminalia chebula Retz.), which have agni dipana (improving the digestive fire), ama pachana (detoxification) and vatanulomana (balancing of vata) properties. Methods: An open label, single arm study, with convenience sampling technique was conducted in adult patients with Primary Hypothyroidism (n = 19), out of which 16 completed the treatment. They were administered Vadavanala vati 2 tablets thrice daily before food with ushnodaka (warm water) as anupana (vehicle) for 45 days. For statistical analysis subjective parameters were assessed with Cochran Q test with McNemar test with Bonferroni correction as post hoc test and objective parameters including biomedical parameters were assessed with paired t test. Results: There was a statistically significant improvement in both primary and secondary outcome measures. Changes in Serum TSH, T4, and clinical symptoms like diminished sweating, dry skin, constipation, and weight were particularly notable. Interpretation and conclusion: Vadavanala vati appears to be an effective formulation in the management of Hypothyroidism.

Synergistic Computational and Cellular Investigation of Berberine's Therapeutic Potential in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

2025-10-25T05:05:23+00:00

Background: Breast cancer is a world wide health issue, characterized by lack of efficient treatment modalities, particularly for aggressive sub types of breast cancer like triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Berberine is a phytoalkaloid alkaloid molecule that has been shown as a promising oncological agent. In the present work in silico network analysis, molecular docking and in vitro studies are employed to examine promise of berberine as therapeutic agent in breast cancer. Methodology: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in breast cancer were identified using GEO datasets Network pharmacology, PPI analysis and pathway enrichment revealed berberine’s impact on key biological process. Molecular docking (AutoDock SwissDock) assessed berberine’s binding to breast cancer targets. ADME analysis evaluated its pharmaco kinetic properties. In vitro studies on breast cancer cell lines examined berberine’s effects on cell viability proliferation and apoptosis using dose-dependent MTT, and ATP based assays highlighting its potential as therapeutic agent. Results: In silico network analysis identified berberine to impact key signalling pathway and interact with significant differentially expressed genes of breast cancer significance. Molecular docking studies demonstrate high affinities of berberine binding to certain target proteins, which were substantiated by good pharmacokinetic potential identified through ADME study. In vitro studies revealed the dose dependent effect of berberine in inhibiting cell viability inducing apoptosis and causing morphological alteration in TNBC cells thereby validating its drug potential. Conclusion: This holistic investigation emphasize the cancer therapeutic efficacy of berberine using network re construction, direct protein interaction with cancer proteins and apoptosis induction in cancer cells. Although these findings emphasize the therapeutic efficacy of berberine experimental validation and clinical trials must be performed prior to the development of targeted and personalized drug which will likely enhance efficacy of breast cancer therapy.

Understanding Neuro-modulatory mechanism of Nasya karma with Dashamoola Ghrita in Migraine with CGRP biomarker- A case series

2025-09-14T16:57:44+00:00

Introduction: This case series explores the effect of Dashmoola Ghrita Marsha Nasya on migraine in relation to CGRP, a key neuromodulator in migraine pathophysiology. While CGRP has been extensively studied in modern medicine, its modulation through traditional Ayurvedic therapies remains underexplored. Clinical Findings: Three patients with episodic migraine presented with moderate to severe headaches, photophobia, and nausea. All had elevated MIDAS scores and serum CGRP levels, indicating significant disability and active neuroinflammatory response. Intervention: Patients underwent Marsha Nasya with Dashmoola Ghrita (8 bindu) for seven consecutive days. Outcomes: Post-treatment, patients demonstrated an average 34% reduction in MIDAS scores and an average 40% decrease in serum CGRP levels, indicating both symptomatic relief and biochemical parameters. Conclusion: Dashmoola Ghrita Marsha Nasya may exert a neuro-modulatory effect on CGRP and improve clinical outcomes in migraine. These findings suggest the potential role of integrating Nasya therapy with biomarker-based evaluation in the management of migraine.