Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine (JAHM)

Explorative Pharmaceutical Study and Physicochemical evaluation of Shodhana and Marana of Garudapacha- A rare mineral used in Ayurveda

2026-06-24T12:12:16+00:00

Introduction: Garudapacha is an extra-pharmacopeial mineral drug used as an ingredient in a few formulations of Ayurveda. References and use of these formulations are confined to the regional practices of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is a white coloured stone resembling chalk. In the previous works, the mineral drug Garudapacha was identified as Magnesite based on its physical characteristics. There are also references on Shodhana (Purification) and Marana (Incineration) of this stone. But, data on pharmaceutical study and physicochemical characterization of Garudapacha Bhasma is lacking. Methods: Samples of Garudapacha were collected from raw drug vendors of Kerala. Shodhana was carried out through Swedana in Kumari Swarasa for 12 hours. Marana was carried out through three experimental trials: Trial I, II followed two variants ofKukkutaputa methods and trial IIIwith Gajaputa method customized based on available references. Results: The temperature of around 650°C was used in Kukkutaputa and repeated five times, but was insufficient to generate bhasma(calx). The Gajaputa method could generate white Bhasma after five Puta satisfying all the classical tests. A temperature of above 900°C for over 2.5 hours was recorded during all the five Gajaputa with maximum temperature ranging from 952.9°C to 956.9°C. The final yield was 31.4% and the prepared Bhasma was a smooth, soft, white-colored fine powder without grittiness. The Bhasma passed through sieve number 120. During physicochemical analysis, loss on drying 0.2%, Total ash 72.34%, acid-insoluble ash 40.66%, water-soluble ash 6.8% and pH of 10.9 were recorded. Conclusion:Garudapacha Marana requires five Gajaputa with a temperature of around 950°C. The data obtained through physicochemical analysis can be considered as preliminary standard.

Gambhari (Gmelina arborea Roxb. Ex Sm.) : A comprehensive analytical review of its therapeutic formulations from selected texts of Ayurveda.

2026-08-07T10:30:33+00:00

Background: Gambhari (Gmelina arborea Roxb.) is a renowned medicinal plant used in Ayurveda. It is a fast-growing species that has proven antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, analgesic activities. Objective: The objective of this review was to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the therapeutic formulations of Gambhari mentioned in selected textbooks of Ayurveda focusing on the major srotas of their action, route of administration, dosage form used for the therapeutic delivery, part used, synonym used and whether the mode of administration was internal or external or both. Materials and Methods: This is a analytical review. The data compilation was made by a thorough analysis of 21 selected books of Ayurveda. Formulations containing any part of Gambhari whether utilized as a standalone ingredient or as constituents of Dasamula or Brhat Panchamoola were identified and documented in a specially designed data extraction sheet. NAMASTE (National AYUSH Morbidity and Standardized Terminologies Electronic) portal was referred for the English equivalents of Ayurvedic technical terms. Results: The analysis revealed that Gambhari was used as an ingredient in a total of 1125 formulations from 21 classical texts which were used for either internal or external administration or both. Among these 273 formulations were repeated. After removal of repetitions a total of 852 formulations acting on different diseases were obtained. The primary systemic affinities were visualized using Sunburst charts, illustrating the top five Srotas/ Srotas combinations targeted by these formulations. Conclusion: The current review highlights Gambhari (G.arborea) as a versatile therapeutic agent having a profound multi-target pharmacological profile. The review has demonstrated the primary affinity of the formulations containing Gambhari in Annavaha-Rasavaha and Pranavaha srotas highlighting its critical role in maintaining digestive metabolic and respiratory health.

Clinical Utility of Charakokta Snehopaga Mahakashaya: A Narrative Review

2026-08-05T06:32:51+00:00

Introduction: Snehopaga Mahakashaya is one of the fifty Mahakashayas enumerated in the fourth chapter of Charaka Samhita Sutra Sthana (Shadvirechanashatashritiya Adhyaya). The term Snehopaga refers to the drugs by incorporating which the properties of unctuous substances like oil or ghee are enhanced to create a synergistic effect and ultimately enhancing the overall therapeutic benefits. These drugs can be employed in dual modes i.e., internally and externally in accordance with the prevailing Doshic imbalance or condition of the disease. So, in this paper an effort is undertaken to shed light on the pharmacological and Ayurvedic qualities of Snehopaga Mahakashaya as well as its potential clinical application in various administration methods. Methodology: Charaka Samhita, Susruta Samhita, and Asthanga Hridaya were thoroughly reviewed to collect formulations containing Snehopaga drugs and their modes of administration. Data were compiled from both direct and indirect references, including details of formulations, indications, routes of administration, and textual sources. The definition of “Snehopaga” was obtained from Charaka and Susruta Samhita. Only formulations and procedures that adhere to the definition of Snehopaga were included, whereas preparations such as Kwatha, Gutika, Churna, and Parisheka etc. were excluded. Pharmaceutical and pharmacological information on Snehopaga drugs was gathered from PubMed and Google Scholar using their botanical names and relevant keywords. Results: The comprehensive review and analysis of the ten drugs categorized under Snehopaga Mahakashaya demonstrated their collective and individual efficacy in supporting Snehana Karma. The concept highlights a unique Ayurvedic strategy, not merely administering oil or ghee for oleation, but enhancing its effect through supportive herbal companions. Conclusion: The Snehopaga Mahakashaya represents a thoughtful formulation strategy in Ayurveda, where herbs are grouped not merely by pharmacological activity but by synergistic action. Its application may enhance efficacy of Snehana therapy and contributes to improve outcomes in cleansing, nourishment and rejuvenation.

Footprints of Shalmali (Bombax ceiba L.) and Mocharasa in Ayurveda therapeutics: A classical review

2026-07-28T06:43:19+00:00

Background- Plant based medicinal formulations are the integral part of classical Ayurveda therapeutics. Classical literature of Ayurved emphasizes the superiority of Dravya among the Rasadi Panchaka with various criteria. Therefore, plants and herbs are the soul of Dravyagunavigyana domain. Shalmali (Bombax ceiba L.), mentioned in Ayurveda is revered for its multipotent therapeutic utility. Objectives- This document aims to compile and study the references of Shalmali and Mocharasa in classical Ayurvedic compendia including Bruhattrayi. Further they were analyzed to gain insights into rationale present in pharmacodynamics of therapeutics of both the drugs. Methods- Classical Ayurvedic texts like Chikitsagrantha and Bruhattrayi available in central library of ITRA, Jamnagar were screened for the references of Shalmali and Mocharasa pertaining to therapeutics. Collected information of formulations was evaluated and arranged in tabular format for the ease of understanding and ready referral. Results- Shalmali and Mocharasa are used in more than 45 main and allied therapeutic indications with more than 13 parts of plant. Balashalmali and Kutashalmali are also mentioned in few instances. This proves their broad-spectrum therapeutic potential in Ayurveda therapeutics. Conclusion- This review can be utilized as ready handbook regarding the references of Shalmali and Mocharasa in Ayurvedic literature. Information revealed here is beneficial for AYUSH stakeholders like Ayurvedic researchers, practitioners and pharmacists in understanding the action mechanism of Shalmali and Mocharasa.

Natural Compounds as Oral Remedies for the Treatment of Oral Diseases: A Narrative Review

2026-08-07T06:38:56+00:00

Background: The aim of this narrative review is to inform the key role of natural products in the prevention and treatment of common oral diseases such as dental caries‚ gingivitis‚ periodontitis‚ oral candidiasis and oral cancer with the underlying mechanisms. Method: Reporting of this narrative review followed the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles (SANRA) guideline․ Review of the literature was conducted on PubMed‚ PubMed Central (PMC)‚ Scopus‚ Web of Science and Google Scholar․ The search period extended from January 2017 to June 2026․ Eligibility criteria: English-language peer-reviewed articles studying natural compounds or phytochemicals that have experimental or clinical evidence in the prevention or treatment of oral diseases․ Exclusion criteria included articles that did not provide biological outcomes or mechanisms‚ or that were not specific to oral diseases․ Out of 800 records‚ 167 duplicates were removed based on the title, year of publication, author names and DOI and 43 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis after screening of titles/abstracts and full texts. Results: Natural compounds have been widely used against oral diseases through the inhibition of microbial growth and biofilm formation‚ inhibition of inflammatory mediators, reduction of oxidative stress via the Nrf2 pathway activation‚ wound healing/epithelial proliferation‚ antifungal effects against oral Candida spp‚ and apoptosis of oral cancer cells via modulation of the Bax/Bcl-2‚ caspases‚ PI3K-Akt‚ and VEGF signaling pathways․ Nanocarriers such as nanoparticles‚ nanogels‚ hydrogels‚ liposomes‚ and mucoadhesive formulations improved the bioavailability and pharmacological activities of these six bioactive compounds․ Conclusions: Multi-targeted natural products may act as a potential therapeutic approach to treating and preventing oral diseases by inducing strong anti-microbial‚ anti-inflammatory‚ anti-oxidative‚ anti-fungal‚ and anti-cancer effects․ However‚ further experimental evidence is needed to formulate products with standardized delivery systems‚ pharmacokinetic studies‚ and well-designed clinical trials prior to the development of products with clinical use․

Management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus through Ayurveda – A Case Report

2026-07-29T11:55:14+00:00

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common obstetric complication associated with significant maternal, fetal and neonatal morbidity. Conventional management includes medical nutrition therapy (MNT), oral hypoglycemic agents and insulin when required. Ayurveda conceptualizes conditions similar to GDM under Prameha and offers Pathya Ahara-Vihara and Shamanaushadhi. However, systematically documented clinical evidence remains limited. Clinical Findings: A 32-year-old primigravida was diagnosed with GDM at 26 weeks 5 days of gestation based on a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) interpreted according to IADPSG criteria (fasting glucose 116 mg/dL, 1-hour glucose 183 mg/dL, 2-hour glucose 119 mg/dL). She also had mild anemia (Hb 9.8 g/dL). Intervention: Dietary and lifestyle modification was initiated at 26 weeks 5 days of gestation. As fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels remained above target after two weeks, Shamanaushadhi -Dhatri Loha, Vasanta Kusumakara Rasa, and Asanadi Kashaya were started from 28 weeks 5 days and continued until delivery. Outcome: Postprandial blood glucose declined from 157 mg/dL at 28 weeks 5 days to 118 mg/dL at 40 weeks, reaching the recommended postprandial target, while fasting blood glucose remained relatively stable during follow-up. A healthy male neonate weighing 3200 g was delivered by LSCS for non-progress of labor, with APGAR scores of 7, 9, and 10 at 1, 5, and 10 minutes respectively. No neonatal complications or treatment related adverse events were observed. Conclusion: In this case, dietary and lifestyle modification was initiated at 26 weeks 5 days of gestation following the diagnosis of GDM, followed by Shamanaushadhi at 28 weeks 5 days of gestation, and continued until delivery, with follow-up to 6 weeks postpartum. Improvement in glycemic control was observed during treatment, along with favorable maternal and neonatal outcomes and no treatment-related adverse events. This case highlights the potential role of Ayurveda in the management of gestational diabetes mellitus.

Ayurvedic Management of Recurrent Diffuse Episcleritis: A Case Report

2026-08-01T08:01:03+00:00

Background: Episcleritis, an acute inflammation of the episclera, is often managed with topical steroids and systemic anti-inflammatory drugs in conventional medicine, yet recurrence remains a challenge. The incidence of episcleritis is approximately 15.39 per 100,000 persons per year, with diffuse type being the most common. Ayurveda correlates episcleritis with Sirajala. Clinical findings: This case report describes the successful management of diffuse episcleritis in a 43-year-old female, presented with recurrent redness, mild pain, swelling, and tearing of the left eye since 2019, with increasing episode frequency. Slit-lamp bio microscopy revealed diffuse congestion of superficial episcleral vessels involving the entire visible sclera with chemosis. Key lab findings: Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of 85 mm/hr, immunoglobulin E (IgE) at 380 IU/mL, and immunoglobulin G (IgG) at 22 g/L, antistreptolysin O (ASO) titers at 342.4 IU/mL. Intervention: Ayurvedic intervention included internal (Guduchyadi kashayam, Sudarshana gutika and Haridra khandam) and external therapies (Seka, Vidalaka, and Jaloukavacharana). The treatment was rationally designed to pacify aggravated Pitta- Kapha, regulate Vata, normalize Rasa-Rakta Dhatus and address the root cause of recurrent Sirajala (episcleritis). Outcome: Following the interventions, redness, pain, tearing, and chemosis/swelling resolved completely, with no recurrence observed during a 20-month follow-up period. Visual acuity and intraocular pressure, remained stable. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score for pain reduced from 4 to 0 and vision, inflammation, strabismus, appearance (VISA) score for chemosis reduced from 1 to 0 by discharge. Redness (Efron scale) and tearing (Munk scale) also became zero. Conclusion: This case highlights the efficacy of Ayurvedic interventions in addressing the root cause of episcleritis (correlated with Sirajala in Ayurveda), offering a potential alternative for recurrent cases. The therapies rationally pacified aggravated Pitta-Kapha, regulated Vata and normalized Rasa-Rakta dhatus. Internal medicines reduced inflammation, while external therapies helped prevent recurrence by pacifying local and systemic Dosha-Dhatu imbalance.

Integrative Ayurveda Management in Functional Recovery of Ardita (Bell’s Palsy): A Case Report

2026-07-16T14:18:54+00:00

Background: Bell’s palsy is an acute-onset, unilateral lower motor neuron facial nerve palsy affecting 20-30 per 100,000 population annually. Contemporary management primarily includes corticosteroids and antiviral therapy; however, recovery may be delayed, and some patients experience residual deficits. In Ayurveda, Bell’s palsy closely resembles Ardita, a Vataja Nanatmaja disorder, characterized by facial deviation, impaired eye closure, slurred speech and loss of nasolabial fold. Clinical Findings: A 53-year-old male presented with deviation of mouth, headache, heaviness on left side of face, pricking sensation and watering of both eyes for 15 days. Neurological examination revealed involvement of the facial nerve with loss of the nasolabial fold, incomplete eyelid closure, deviation of angle of mouth and air leakage during cheek inflation, while the remaining cranial nerves and motor functions of limbs were normal. Based on clinical evaluation, the case was diagnosed as Bell’s palsy from the contemporary perspective and Ardita according to Ayurveda. Interventions: The patient was managed with Panchakarma procedures, namely Nasya along with external therapies comprising initial Rukshana with Udvartana, Dashamoola Parisheka and Salvana Upanaha, Sarvanga Abhyanga with Mahamasha Taila followed by Bashpa Sweda, Physiotherapy, and appropriate internal Shamana medications. Outcomes: Progressive clinical improvement was observed during course of treatment, with complete resolution of headache, facial heaviness, eye watering and mouth deviation by the time of discharge. No adverse events were reported during treatment, and no recurrence was observed during 30-day follow-up. House-Brackmann Scale score improved from Grade III to Grade I. Conclusion: This case describes the management of acute-onset Ardita (Bell’s palsy) using integrative Ayurvedic protocol. Favorable clinical recovery was observed during the documented follow-up period. As this is a single case, the findings should interpretate cautiously and well-designed controlled clinical studies are required to establish efficacy and generalizability.

Right Accessory Renal Artery: Anatomical, Clinical and Surgical Importance – A Cadaveric Case Report

2026-07-22T07:22:55+00:00

Background: Renal artery variations are common anatomical findings, occurring in approximately 23% of kidneys. They are reported more frequently in males (30%) than females (11%), and are more common on the right side (60%) than the left (26%), while bilateral variations account for approximately 11% of cases. Accessory renal arteries most commonly supply the superior pole (41.7%), followed by the hilar region (29.2%) and inferior pole (29.2%). Case Presentation: During routine cadaveric dissection in the Department of Rachana Sharira, KAHER's Shri BMK Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Shahapur, Belagavi, a variation in the right renal arterial anatomy was observed. The cadaver exhibited a right accessory renal artery in addition to the main renal artery. Morphometric measurements were obtained using a standard ruler for length and a Vernier caliper for arterial diameter, and the findings were systematically documented. Findings: A right accessory renal artery measuring 6.5 cm in length and 3 mm in diameter originated from the abdominal aorta just superior and slightly to the left of the origin of the main right renal artery. The accessory artery supplied the right suprarenal gland and the inferior pole of the right kidney. Conclusion: Recognition of a right accessory renal artery is clinically important because such vascular variations may influence renal transplantation, nephrectomy, vascular reconstruction, and other retroperitoneal surgical procedures. Awareness of these anatomical variations facilitates accurate preoperative planning and helps reduce the risk of inadvertent vascular injury and associated surgical complications.

Ayurveda Management of Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO) - A Case Report

2026-07-30T07:34:03+00:00

Background: Herpes zoster (HZ) is caused by reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). When the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve is involved, the condition is termed Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO). HZO is an ophthalmic emergency that may result in serious ocular complications, including vision loss, if not treated promptly. Clinical Findings: A 31-year-old male with recently diagnosed Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus and diabetes mellitus presented to the outpatient department with painful vesicular eruptions, swelling, redness, and burning sensation over the right forehead and periocular region. Based on Ayurvedic clinical assessment, the condition was diagnosed as Visarpa. Intervention: The patient was managed with Jalaukavacharana (leech therapy), Pittaghna local applications, and individualized internal Ayurvedic medications while continuing the prescribed anti-diabetic treatment. Outcome: The patient showed marked clinical improvement with complete resolution of swelling, redness, and burning sensation, along with satisfactory healing of the skin lesions. No ocular complications or post-herpetic neuralgia were observed during the follow-up period. Conclusion: This case suggests that an integrative Ayurvedic management approach may be beneficial as an adjunctive treatment for Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus. Early intervention was associated with favorable clinical recovery and the absence of major complications in this patient. However, larger controlled studies are required to establish the safety and effectiveness of this approach.

Management of Jeerna Vataja Kasa (Allergic Bronchitis) in Chronic Constipation Patient- A case report

2026-08-03T07:22:21+00:00

Background: Kasa (cough) is the Vata-Kapha Pradhana Vyadhi which is caused by excessive intake of Katu (pungent), Amla (sour), Lavana (salty), Ruksha (dry), Sheeta (cold), Guru (heavy), Snigdha (oily) food along with Divaswapna (day sleep), Ratri Jagarana(night vigil). Due to Nidana, Vata gets aggravated causing Shushka Kasa etc Lakshana leading to Vataja Kasa. Allergic bronchitis is characterized by inflammation of bronchial tubes resulting in cough, chest pain etc. Clinical Findings: A 46 years old female patient with known case of HTN presented complaints of Shushka Kasa (dry cough) persisting from past 3 months aggravated during day time associated with Malavarodha (Constipation) since 15 years and Appetite (reduced appetite) since 2days. Patient was intended to treat with Ayurveda line of treatment for 1month and got 90% improvement but again symptoms aggravated. So, consulted pulmonologist and was treated with steroid therapy for 5days. Complaints aggravated since 2days, hence she opted for Ayurvedic management where she was diagnosed with Jeerna Vataja Kasa with chronic constipation and a structured ayurvedic treatment was adopted. Interventions: Treatment was planned according to classical approach which included Shamana Aushada (oral medication) and Shamananga Snehapana (internal oleation), Pathyapthya, Yoga and Mudra This intervention was administered over a period 4 months 4days with regular follow ups. Outcome: After 4months 4days, clinical assessment showed marked improvement in symptoms i.e. Bronchitis severity score (BSS-5 reduced to 0),Leicester cough questionnaire (LCQ-9.89 improved to 19.75) and Wexner constipation score reduced (from score 9 to score 1). Conclusion: A three months chronic case of Kasa and chronic constipation of over 15years was successfully managed highlighting the potential of whole-system Ayurveda in offering sustainable relief and management for chronic disorders unresponsive to modern medicine.

Ayurvedic management of Karshya – A Case Report.

2026-08-06T06:31:59+00:00

Introduction: Apatarpanajanya Vyadhi (disorder arising from inadequate nourishment) with Krushatva (undernutrition) is termed as Karshya, comparable to underweight. Underweight prevalence though decreased to 32.1% (National Family Health Survey - 5), still remains. Despite several national nutritional programmes, undernutrition remains a significant health challenge in children. Ashwagandhadi Leha is indicated in Karshya for its Balya (strength promoting), Brimhana (nourishing) and Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties. Limitation with administration of Ghrita and Leha yogas in children is due to non-acceptance resulting from bitter taste, smell or texture. In such conditions, a modified pharmaceutically granules formulation Ashwagandhadi leha granules (ALG) could be a choice of intervention. Materials and methods: A single case of Karshya was treated and documented for changes in clinical manifestation of Karshya, improvement in anthropometric parameters height, weight, mid upper arm circumference (MUAC), head circumference, chest circumference, skin fold thickness, Body mass index (BMI) and WHO Z Score for height-for-weight at baseline, on 90^th day and at follow-up. Haematological parameters, serum protein, serum albumin, serum lipids, urine routine and microscopic were assessed at baseline and on 90^th day. Results: Upon completion of intervention, improvements in weight (1.5kg), height (6cm), BMI (1.1 kg/m²⁾, MUAC (2.5cm) and other anthropometric parameters were noted. However, there was no significant change in haematological and serological parameters. The results can be attributed to the Brimhana effect intervention supporting overall nutritional improvement. Conclusion: ALG is a safe, palatable and nutritionally rich Ayurvedic formulation with Balya, Brimhana and Rasayana properties that improves nutritional status and anthropometric parameters in undernutrition. However, this being a single case study, further evaluation of ALG in large sample and if possible controlled studies can generate substantial evidence and may serve as an effective dietary therapeutic intervention. During the course of treatment there were no adverse drug reactions (ADR) indicating the intervention was safe and effective.

Comparative in vivo evaluation of Toxicity and Aphrodisiac activity in drug-induced erectile dysfunction of Sidha Shalmali Kalpa (Shalmali malabarica formulation) with its modified form – A Research Protocol

2026-06-07T06:28:09+00:00

Introduction: Infertility has a prevalence of 15% in couples globally. Of this, 50 % infertility cases are due to problems in males. Sidha Shalmali Kalpa has been mentioned in Bhaishajya Ratnavali for its Aphrodisiac activity. This study aims to reduce the incidence of male infertility and improve reproductive health. Current pharmacological treatment has adverse side effects and is unsuitable for long-term use. Therefore, there is a need for safer alternatives. SSK (Shalmali malabarica formulation) is described for improving male reproductive functions; its safety and efficacy are not supported by scientific evidence. Therefore, the present study demonstrates the Vaijikarana activity of the drugs using modern scientific parameters. It helps to integrate Ayurvedic formulations into evidence-based reproductive healthcare. Methods: This experimental study will be conducted at a certified animal house. All raw ingredients will collected from authentic sources. Then, they will verify for authenticity. SSK and its modified dosage form will prepare, standardized, and analyzed as per the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API). An Acute toxicity study will conducted in male rats (6 rats per group - 2 groups) in accordance with OECD guidelines. In the Efficacy study, the aphrodisiac activity will examine in both normal and drug (Paroxetine) - induced erectile dysfunction animal models (6 rats per group: 6 groups of male rats and 1group of female rats). General clinical observations, such as behavioural parameters (mount latency/frequency, intromission latency/frequency), along with biochemical marker assessments (Serum testosterone, ALP levels), will conducted. Histopathological studies of vital organs will also carry out to assess safety. Conclusion: This study will likely to generate scientific evidence regarding the safety and aphrodisiac activity of classical SSK and its modified form. The modified form of SSK is likely to exhibit increased therapeutic efficacy, possibly due to improved bioavailability and its constituent photochemical.

Development and Validation of Diagnostic Tool for Janu Sandhigata Vata with Special Reference to Knee Osteoarthritis- Mixed-Method Diagnostic Validation Study Protocol

2026-05-21T11:14:53+00:00

Background: In Ayurveda, emphasis is placed on proper diagnosis before giving treatment. A proper diagnosis involves comprehensive assessment of multiple factors like Dosha, Dhatu etc. This personalized framework is influenced by physicians' perception there causing variability in clinical judgement. Standardization, reproducibility, and objectivity of diagnostic tools are increasing and contemporary science has well established it. Unlike Ayurveda which relies on classical texts and physicians’ expertise. This gap creates challenges in ensuring uniformity in diagnosis, especially in clinical research, interdisciplinary practice and evidence- based validation. Development of diagnostic tool is needed to bridge this gap and enhance the credibility of Ayurvedic diagnosis. Sandhigata vata is a leading disease treated in Ayurveda and diagnosed based on Laxana due to vata vitiation. No standard diagnostic tool is available for it. Objective: To diagnose osteoarthritis using Ayurvedic and modern diagnostic approaches and to develop and validate a standardized diagnostic tool/process for Janu Sandhigata Vata. Methodology: The study will be conducted in four phases. Phase I will identify questionnaire items and response options through literature review, survey, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews. Phase II will involve pre-testing of the items and response scales among Ayurveda physicians and patients with Janu Sandhigata Vata. Phase III will involve domain reduction and expert item revision to retain relevant items and remove unsuitable ones. Phase IV will assess the validity and reliability of the developed diagnostic tool. Both qualitative and quantitative methods will be employed, followed by appropriate statistical analysis. Results: In January 2025 present study was initiated. It includes both qualitative and quantitative Methods. All four phases followed by statistical analysis is expected to be completed by June 2027. Conclusion: This study protocol is designed to develop and validate a diagnostic tool/ process and develop standard methodology to diagnose diseases in Ayurveda.

Clinical Evidence on Ayurvedic Interventions for Hypothyroidism and Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Scoping Review

2026-06-26T13:40:14+00:00

Background: Hypothyroidism is a prevalent endocrine disorder which has a significant clinical burden. The conventional levothyroxine therapy spans over a lifetime and symptoms may continue even after achieving biochemical remission. Ayurveda offers a holistic, integrative approach and can help overcome these limitations. Objectives: To systematically map existing evidence about the scope, range and type of clinical evidences Methods: Clinical studies conducted among adult persons (≥18 years) with hypothyroidism or subclinical hypothyroidism, evaluating any Ayurvedic intervention were eligible. Included study designs were randomized controlled trials (RCT’s), quasi-experimental studies, single-arm trial, and case reports with inclusion limited English language publications from January 2015 to December 2025. Medline (via PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane CENTRAL and Clinical trials registry of India. Final search was conducted on 31^st December 2025. Data was collected using predefined and pilot tested charting form. Information on study characteristics, interventions, follow-ups studies duration and studies outcomes. Owing to heterogeneity of the included studies, findings were synthesized descriptively. Results: Fourteen studies were included: four RCT’s, three single-arm trials and seven case reports/series. Interventions comprise the use of single herbs, multi-herbal formulations, Herbo-mineral preparations, different Panchakarma procedures like Basti, and all-inclusive approaches combine diet and lifestyle management. Majority reported reduction in serum TSH levels apart from improvement in clinical symptoms, anthropometric parameters and quality of life. RCT’s provided comparatively better evidence mainly for all-inclusive approaches. Case-based evidence showed normalization of thyroid function and in one case, supervised withdrawal of levothyroxine. However, the studies were heterogeneous with several methodological constraints. Conclusions: Current clinical evidence suggests that Ayurveda interventions may have supportive role as adjuvant and integrative approach in hypothyroidism. Findings suggest consistent clinical benefits but several gaps exist. Well-designed, multi-centric RCTs involving standardized procedures and longer follow-ups are required to ascertain effectiveness and to increase generalizability.