Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine (JAHM)

Synthesis and Characterization of Tridhatugabha Pottali (TGP) Prepared Using Classical and Modified Electrical Instruments

Nalini R Hedaoo, Sachin Sheth, Piyush Gandhi, Rajesh Ingole — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Pottali is one of the Parada Murcchana (a form of mercury compound with therapeutic efficacy), in which a combination of drugs is converted into a conical shape (Pottali). The Paka of Pottali was carried out in melted Sulfur until a specific confirmatory test was observed. The instrument plays an important role in controlling and maintaining the temperature required to maintain the melted state of Sulfur. Nowadays, due to advanced technology, new instruments are developed to control and maintain the temperature. Objective: - To compare the organoleptic, physicochemical, and other parameters of Tridhatugarbha Pottali (TGP) prepared using Classical Pottali Yantra (CPY) and Electrical Pottali Yantra (EPY). Material and Method: Tridhatugarbha Pottali was prepared using Classical Pottali Yantra (CPY) and Electrical Pottali Yantra (EPY). The TGP was compared using organoleptic parameters, physicochemical parameters, yield, and duration required. TGP was compared for elemental composition, compound formed, and crystal identification using XRF and XRD. Results: 22 and 26 hours are required for the preparation of TGP-CPY and TGP-EPY, respectively. There is not much variation in the organoleptic, physical parameters, and elemental composition of TGP-CPY and EPY. However, there is variation in the different compounds found in TGP-CPY and EPY. Conclusion: The EPY was easy to use and required less attention to operate than CPY. EPY helps in better control and maintaining the desired temperature than CPY. However, a change in the composition of the final product may affect the therapeutic efficacy. The final product of both the instruments found different compositions of the same element may be because of the varied heating pattern and the quantum of heat applied. Extensive research with a larger number of batches and more sophisticated instrumental analysis may provide the proper decision of using the electrical Pottali Yantra.

Physicochemical and Phytochemical Evaluation of Aqueous and Alcoholic Extracts of Tamraparna (Nicotiana tabacum L.) and Development of Topical Gel Formulation

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Tamraparna (Nicotiana tabacum L.) leaves bioactive phytoconstituents exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities. Method of extraction has high impact on the qualitative and quantitative analysis of extracts. Topical drug delivery systems primarily deliver the drug locally and provide increased patient compliance by reducing systemic side effects. Gels are convenient topical dosage forms having benefits of high aqueous component, permitting greater dissolution of drug and ease of application. Objective: To assess physicochemical and phytochemical properties of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Tamraparna (Bhavyashree variety) leaves and to develop standardized gel formulation using alcoholic extract. Materials and Methods: Soxhlet extraction of Tamraparna dried leaves was done using water and ethanol as solvents and extracts were subjected to organoleptic, physicochemical, phytochemical (qualitative screening and quantitative estimation of total alkaloid) characterization using standard procedures. A topical formulation of gel was prepared using Carbopol 934 by one factor at a time (OFAT) approach employing extracts at various concentrations (1-6% w/w), which was then subjected to evaluation of physical parameters like extrusion, homogeneity, pH and preliminary skin sensitivity parameters. Results: Phytochemical screening of extracts divulged the presence of carbohydrates, reducing sugars, flavonoids, tannins, whereas alkaloids, proteins, steroids and cardiac glycosides were detected in alcoholic extract only. The total alkaloid content of extract was estimated 132.43 mg AE/100 g. Alcoholic extract exhibited excellent antioxidant activity that is 95.36% at a concentration of 250 µg/mL. Among various prepared formulations, 5% w/w gel exhibited proper physicochemical characteristics like good spreadability, extrudability, homogeneity, and neutral pH, and no skin irritation was observed during skin sensitivity studies. Conclusion: Alcoholic Extract of Tamraparna contains bioactive constituents exhibiting a more potent antioxidant potential than aqueous extract. 5% w/w gel formulation developed possesses good physicochemical characteristics indicating the suitability of the gel formulation as topical therapeutic preparation.

Pepsin modulation activity of Truptighna Dashemani drugs in correlation with total phenols: An in-vitro study

Divya Khare, Arun Chougale, Avinash A Koradhanyamath — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Trupti is early satiety and likened to Dyspepsia which occurs as a symptom in many gastro-intestinal conditions. Functional dyspepsia (FD) presents with bothersome post prandial fullness, pain, burning in the epigastrium and early satiety. Pepsin enzyme has been recently identified as one of the potential targets in FD. Charaka Samhita mentions Truptighna Dashemani, for treating the condition Trupti (Dyspepsia). Objectives: The present study aimed to explore Pepsin enzyme modulation activity of Truptighna Dashemani drugs and relate this with the phenolic content present in them. Methods: Hydro alcoholic extract of each drug of Truptighna dashemani was prepared by cold maceration. Estimation of total phenols was performed by Folin-ciocalteu method using Gallic acid as standard. Pepsin enzyme assay was performed following internationally accepted standard INFOGEST protocol and was then correlated with total phenols in each drug. Results: Chavya showed the highest phenolic content (109.88 ±0.29 mg GAE/ gm of extract) while Pippali and Vacha showed the least. Guduchi showed the highest Pepsin activity (23633 units/ mg) followed by Pippali (22633), Chitraka (17533 units/ mg) and Vidanga (12933). Patola and Nagara showed negative values. Kruskal Wallis ANOVA comparing the results with positive control showed significant differences in Pepsin activity among eleven groups (control + ten extracts; H = 27.6, P = 0.0026, n = 3 per group). The association between phenol content and pepsin activity was assessed using nonparametric Spearman correlation, revealing moderate negative correlation (r = −0.56, P = 0.096, n = 10) indicating greater pepsin inhibition by extracts with lower phenolic content. Conclusion: Truptighna Dashemani drugs have Pepsin modulation action as evidenced by invitro studies. The total phenolic content present in the individual drugs might be having role in Pepsin activity modulation. Drugs showing Pepsin activation can act as digestive stimulants while those inhibiting pepsin action act as gastro protectives.

Influence of Bhumi Desha on the Phytochemical Profile of Bilva Phala (Aegle marmelos): A Comparative Study

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background and Objectives: Classical Ayurvedic texts outline comprehensive guidelines regarding the Desha (geographical habitat), Kala (season/time) and Grahana Vidhi (method of collection) for the procurement of Aushadha Dravya to ensure superior Chikitsa-samarthya (therapeutic potency). Ancient acharyas specifically asserted that plants indigenous to Jangaladesha possess superior medicinal attributes; however, empirical validation of this paradigm remains limited. This study aimed to scientifically evaluate this classical concept by quantitatively analyzing key bioactive marker compounds—specifically alkaloids, tannins, and marmelosin—in Bilvaphala Majja Churna (Aegle marmelos fruit pulp powder) sourced from different Bhumideshas. Methods: Authentic Bilva fruits were harvested from three distinct ecological zones(Bhumi desha): Jangala(arid), Sadharana(moderate), and Anupa(moist/wet land). The fruit pulp was isolated, dried, and processed into a fine powder. Quantitative chemoprofiling was subsequently conducted using validated analytical frameworks, utilizing Gravimetry for alkaloids, Spectrophotometry for tannins, and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography(HPLC) for marmelosin quantification . Results: Distinct quantitative variations in secondary metabolite yields were observed based on geographical habitat. The phytochemical yields for Jangaladesha samples were recorded at 0.28%w/w for alkaloids, 6.85%w/w for tannins, and 0.36% w/w for marmelosin. In comparison, Sadharanadesha specimens exhibited values of 0.14%w/w, 5.85%w/w, & 0.34%w/w, while Anupadesha samples demonstrated yields of 0.17%w/w, 6.71%w/w, & 0.06%w/w for alkaloids, tannins, and marmelosin respectively. Conclusion: Pharmacognostical standardization is a critical imperative to ensure consistency in the therapeutic efficacy and clinical outcomes of herbal formulations. Quantitative fluctuations in phytochemical profiles present a significant challenge to the reproducibility of clinical results in contemporary Ayurveda. This study demonstrates that geographical habitat(Desha) profoundly dictates the accumulation of secondary metabolites in Bilva, with Jangaladesha samples consistently displaying the highest concentrations of targeted bioactives. These findings provide preliminary scientific validation for traditional harvesting principles, indicating that Jangala and Sadharana habitats yields drugs of superior phytochemical quality, ultimately supporting more predictable and optimal clinical outcomes.

Preparation and Standardization of Classical Shalmali Malabarica Formulation (Siddha Shalmali Kalpa) A Potential Ayurvedic Aphrodisiac Formulation – A Pharmaceutical and Analytical Study

Pravin Koparde, Mujahid Khan, Sheetal Pravin Koparde — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The classical Shalmali malabarica formulation (Siddh Shalmali Kalp, SSK) is traditionally considered a potential aphrodisiac. Despite this, there is a lack of comprehensive pharmaceutico-analytical standardization and scientific validation. Objective: To prepare Classical Shalmali malabarica formulation (SSK) by using traditional methods and standardize to evaluate its Pharmaceutico- analytical parameters for quality, safety, and reproducibility, with the help of classical and contemporary parameters Materials and methods: All raw ingredients were sourced from GMP-certified, authentic sources. The formulation was prepared in three batches as per the classical methods described in Bhaishajya Ratnavali, including purification of Mercury and Sulfur, followed by the preparation of black sulfide of Mercury (1 part of Mercury and ½ part of Sulfur), and then its tribulation with a fine powder of other herbal ingredients. Observation and Results: Preparation of Kajjali showing gradual change from Gray to jet black with attainment of classical parameters like Rekhapurntva, etc. Sequential 14 wet grinding cycles (Bhavana) resulted in progressive improvement in color - jet black, texture - ultra fine, and smoothness. The total 275 g of formulation increased to 305 g, 300 g, and 305 g with a 10.9%, 9.09 g, and 10.9 g gain respectively, indicating effective incorporation of bhavnadravya. Final production (Batch A, B, and C) meets acceptable physico-chemical values and a stable herbo-mineral composition, with essential elements and permissible trace metals. Conclusion: The study successfully standardizes three batches of the Classical Shalmali malabarica formulation (SSK) through classical pharmaceutical procedures and modern analytical evaluation, thereby confirming its identity, quality, and reproducibility. Physiochemical and XRF analyses confirmed a stable herbo-mineral composition, with essential elements within safe limits. This validates proper processing and safety of formulation. The findings support its potential as a standardized, safe, and effective aphrodisiac formulation, providing a scientific basis for further pharmacological and clinical studies.

Pharmacognostical, Pharmaceutical and Analytical Standardization of Shirishadi Arka through Physicochemical Evaluation, HPTLC Profiling, GC MS Characterization and Safety Assessment.

Kshitiz Koundal, Hetal D Vyas, Mandip Goyal, Arjun Mukeshbhai Pandya — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Standardization of Ayurvedic formulations is essential to ensure their safety, quality, and reproducibility. Shirishadi Arka is an Anubhuta Yoga traditionally indicated in respiratory disorders such as Shwasa and Kasa. Aim: To prepare Shirishadi Arka and establish its pharmacognostical, pharmaceutical, and analytical standardization using modern scientific parameters. Objectives: To understand the preparation of Shirishadi Arka by method of distillation. To determine the analytical tests like physico-chemical parameters, and tests for heavy metals to assure to evaluate the pharmaceutical and analytical standardization. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis to investigate potential properties of Shirishadi Arka. Material and Methods: The formulation was prepared by classical distillation (Arka Kalpana) using Shirisha (Albizia lebbeck), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), and Kantakari (Solanum xanthocarpum). Pharmacognostical evaluation was carried out for authentication of raw drugs. Physicochemical parameters, microbial load, heavy metal analysis, pesticide residue were performed as per API guidelines. High Profile Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) was employed for preliminary fingerprinting, while Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis was conducted for phytochemical profiling. All experiments were performed in triplicate (n = 3), and results were expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Analytical methods were validated for precision and repeatability. Results: The formulation complied with API standards. Physicochemical parameters showed pH 7.00 ± 0.05, specific gravity 1.0033 ± 0.002, and total solid content 0.052 ± 0.003 % w/v. Microbial, heavy metal and pesticide residue analysis were within permissible limits. HPTLC analysis demonstrated distinct chromatographic patterns. GC–MS analysis identified 50 phytoconstituents, including fatty acids, terpenoids, and phytosterols such as n-hexadecanoic acid, γ-tocopherol, and β-sitosterol derivatives. %RSD values were within acceptable limits, indicating good reproducibility. Conclusion: The study establishes a comprehensive standardization profile of Shirishadi Arka. The presence of bioactive compounds with known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties supports its traditional use in respiratory disorders such as COPD (Tamaka Shwasa).

Ayurvedic Approach to Atherogenic Dyslipidemia: A Prospective Interventional Case Series

Shravani U Mahajan, Digvijay Patil, Dhananjay Patel, Mandip Goyal — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Atherogenic Dyslipidemia (AD) is recognized by elevated serum triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, along with reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Extensive research has shown that the raised levels of LDL and apolipoprotein B (Apo-B) are the main causative factors in the occurrence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. According to Ayurvedic perspective, the condition of AD can occur due to an imbalance in Jatharagni and Medodhatwagni, leading to Medodushti. Aim: This prospective interventional case series aims to evaluate the effect of an Ayurvedic treatment protocol, in regulating atherogenic dyslipidemia. Material and Methods: Total six patients with atherogenic dyslipidemia were selected in this case series. The treatment protocol included Udvartana (therapeutic powder massage) and Virechana (therapeutic purgation), along with oral Ayurvedic medications and dietary-lifestyle modification, administered for sixty days. The primary outcome was change in lipid levels and Apo-B, while secondary outcome comprised change in symptoms, body mass index (BMI), Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) risk score and QRISK3 score. The assessments were performed prior and post-treatment. Results: There was a reduction in symptoms and lipid levels, such as mean Sr.TG decreased by 62.67 mg/dL (29.51%), LDL by 84.13 mg/dL (51.45%), LDL/HDL ratio by 2.86 mg/dL (60.98%), and Apo-B by 73.40 mg/dL (43.64%), while improvement in HDL by 8.43 mg/dL (24.22%). The mean BMI decreased by 1.43 kg/m² (5.23%) in sixty days.. There was a noticeable reduction in 10-year cardiovascular risk scores (ASCVD and QRISK3) shifting from moderate or high risk to low-risk categories, highlighting a reduction in atherogenic risk. Conclusion: The Ayurvedic treatment protocol of Udvartana and Virechana procedures, integrated with oral medications and dietary-lifestyle modifications, showed improvements in the condition of Atherogenic dyslipidemia. The improvements were observed in clinical symptoms, lipid profile parameters, and next 10-year cardiovascular risk scores.

Curcumin as a multi-hepatoprotective agent-mechanism, clinical and preclinical studies-A narrative review

M K Srinivasan, Gundeti Tharun Reddy — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease‚ alcoholic liver disease‚ viral hepatitis and cirrhosis are the major‌ liver diseases․ Oxidative stress‚ chronic inflammation and dyslipidemias are the‌ primary pathophysiological mechanisms leading to damage to hepatic cells and the progression of liver diseases․ Curcumin‚ a polyphenol derived from Curcuma longa (turmeric)‚ is one of the most analyzed bioactive compounds for its antioxidant‚ anti-inflammatory and‌ hepatoprotective effects․ In‌ this narrative review‚ we summarize the molecular mechanisms of curcumin's liver-protective effects and its potential as a treatment for liver disease․ Methods: Databases such as PubMed‚ Scopus‚‌ and Web of Science‌ were searched for articles published in English over the previous 15 years and containing the keywords "curcumin"‚ "Curcuma longa"‚ "hepatoprotection"‚ "liver injury"‚ and "antioxidant"․ The preclinical‌ and clinical studies were analyzed‌ and data regarding the study design‚ dose‚ therapeutic effects‚ and mechanism of action were extracted and qualitatively discussed․ Results: Curcumin prevents liver injury by inhibiting the nuclear factor‌ kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling pathway and decreasing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis‌ factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6)․ Additionally‚ curcumin reduces oxidative stress by scavenging free‌ radicals and activating the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) pathway‌ that increases the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes․ Curcumin regulates lipid metabolism‌ by activating AMPK and PPAR-α and by inhibiting SREBP-1c‚ which is associated with less hepatic‌ steatosis․ In‌ animal models‚ curcumin consistently improved serum liver‌ function and fibrosis markers․ Clinical trials‌ showed‌ positive results with lowering of liver fat‚ inflammatory markers‚ and serum transaminases․ Conclusion: Curcumin is a potential hepatoprotective agent with multi-targeting effects despite its bioavailability issues․ further modified preparations and large-scale studies should allow for effective hepatoprotective drugs for chronic liver disease to be developed․

Antimicrobial properties of plant barks as a natural strategy to reduce antimicrobial resistance- A narrative review

V Kamalesh Balakumar, Ajay Pujala — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is both a rapidly growing and a major global threat to public health․ AMR reduces the efficacy of existing antibiotics‚ increasing both the morbidity and mortality of infections as well as the cost of healthcare․ Plants produce diverse bioactive secondary metabolites‚ some of which are obtained from the bark of plants and are thus an alternative source for the development of new antimicrobial drugs․ Methods: A systematic narrative review was conducted of studies retrieved from electronic databases such as PubMed‚ PubMed Central‚ Scopus‚ and Web of Science‚ using Boolean search strings to identify antimicrobial activity of bark plant extracts published between 2015 and 2025․ Results: We screened 40 studies based on PRISMA protocol and included them for qualitative analysis․ Plant barks contain phytochemicals of different classes with the most abundant class being phenolic compounds‚ followed by terpenoids‚ alkaloids‚ and saponins․ These compounds are broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents that work by various mechanisms including disruption of the membrane‚ inhibition of cell wall biosynthesis‚ inhibition of protein synthesis‚ inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis‚ enzyme inactivation and efflux pump inhibition․ The compounds were found to be active against MDR Staphylococcus aureus‚ Escherichia coli‚ Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida albicans with MIC values ranging from very strong to medium levels of inhibition․ Others have shown in vivo wound healing ability and systemic antimicrobial activity․ Some methods of extraction have included microwave-assisted extraction and supercritical fluid extraction to maximize yield․ Conclusion: The results of this review suggest that plant bark extracts are promising sources of multi-targeting antimicrobial candidates against resistant pathogens and further mechanistic‚ standardization‚ and clinical studies are warranted toward their translation into the clinic․

Integrative Management of Gudabhramsha (Partial Rectal Prolapse) with Kshara Karma: A Case Report

Bhagyashri Patil, E S Maheshkumar , Anu Chahar, Jignesh Varu, Ramesh Killedar — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Rectal prolapse is a condition in which weakening of muscle and ligaments of rectum occurs which displaces it from its position. Etiology of rectal prolapse is not exactly known and is multifactorial. Incidence is six times more in females, higher risk in chronic constipation cases and previous surgical history patients and conditions that lead to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. In Ayurveda, Sushruta acharya correlates rectal prolapse with Gudabhramsha, mentioned under Kshudra Roga (minor diseases). Sushruta has considered Gudabhramsha as a Sadhya disorder that can be managed conservatively. Clinical findings: In present study a case of mass per rectum was presented by a 56-year-old female patient, which she noticed incidentally while passing stools. Case was diagnosed clinically as Gudabhramsha. Intervention: Patient was managed by integrative management and with Kshara application over the rectal mucosa followed by Changeryadhi Ghrita Matra Basti for two weeks and oral medications (Triphala Guggulu and Haritaki Khanda) for 4 weeks. Outcome: Patient had significant reduction in her symptoms by the end of one week post application of Kshara. Patient was followed up for 2 years post Kshara application and no complaints or complications were reported. Conclusion: This case was successfully managed with integrated treatment approach, which avoided the need for surgical intervention. Further research in this integrated approach can yield evidence based results.

Integrative management approach of Shambukavrata Bhagandara (Complex Trans-Sphincteric Fistula): A case report

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Fistula in Ano is defined as an abnormal tract with an external opening in perianal skin and internal opening in anal canal. It presents with pain and intermittent pus discharge as common complaint. Trans-sphincteric fistula is a complex type of fistula which originates from abscess in ischio-rectal fossa. Similarly, in Ayurveda tridoshaja or shambukavarta bhagandara have curvilinear track resembling curves of conch shell. Management of this type of fistula is challenging and has high recurrence risk with sphincter injury and hampers quality of life. With integrative approach of contemporary and ayurvedic management including Apamarga kshara sutra (Medicated thread) can ensure early recovery, decreased recurrence and reduced complication risks with improved quality of life. Clinical Findings: A male patient aged 54 years presented with complaints of pain and pus discharge from anal region for past 8 months. He was previously operated twice with conventional method. On examination, external opening and perianal abscess at 5 O’clock position. Provisional diagnosis of Trans-sphincteric fistula was made on basis of examination and scans. Intervention: Partial fistulectomy was done followed by Apamarga kshara sutra ligation done of remaining tract. Regular wound dressing, sitz bath and weekly kshara sutra was changed. Ayurvedic medicine along with diet and lifestyle modifications were also advised. Outcome: Complete recovery with this approach was achieved in 22 weeks of time period with average unit cutting time of 1 cm/week with Apamarga kshara sutra. Primary tract decreased from 10cm to 0 cmNo complaints of any complication were reported post recovery. Conclusion: This case of complex long curvilinear fistulous tract of 10 cm length healed completely in 22 weeks with this integrative approach. Patient reported no adverse effect from the treatment received. This approach had good healing, improved quality of life and had no recurrence over 5 months of follow up.

Role of Pracchanna Karma (bloodletting) followed by Shamana Chikitsa in the Management of Indralupta (Alopecia Areata): A Case Report

Meenakshi Anjna, Gyna Prakash Sharma, Achala Ram Kumavat, Megha Agarwal — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Indralupta a condition characterized by localized patchy hair loss mainly occurs due to Rakta Dushti. As per symptoms we can correlate it with Alopecia areata. Depending on the pattern of hair loss, alopecia can take many different forms. It can affect all hair-bearing sites and range from loss in distinct patches to diffuse or complete hair loss. Although not life-threatening, but the cosmetic disfigurement associated with this condition causes emotional and psychological distress and affects an individual’s quality of life. Clinical Findings: A 36-year-old female patient presented with chief complaints of patchy hair loss over the posterior region of scalp assessed by ALODEX score. Based on clinical examination and relevant findings, she was diagnosed with Indralupta (alopecia areata). Intervention: Patient was treated with Pracchanna Karma and Gharshana with fresh Parijata leaves over the affected area as a Shodhana Chikitsa, followed by application of Indralupta Masi Lepa along with internal medications which includes Bhringraja Ghanvati, Aamalaki Vati and Avipattikara Churna as Shamana Chikitsa for a duration of 60 days, with follow-up assessments conducted at two-week intervals. Outcome: There is a significant clinical improvement was observed, evidenced by gradual reduction in ALODEX grading (E1D10 to E0D1) indicating reduction in patch size and visible complete hair regrowth. Conclusion: This case suggests that Indralupta can be effectively managed through Ayurveda treatment over a duration of 60 days, highlighting the potential role of Panchakarma procedures in the management of alopecia areata.

Ayurvedic management and rehabilitation of brachial plexopathy: A case report

S Gayathri, K Akhila, M P Sreelekha — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Brachial plexopathy is a neurological disorder caused by injury to brachial plexus leading to weakness, sensory disturbances, and impaired upper limb function. Traumatic injuries especially resulting from road traffic accidents are the most common causes of brachial plexopathy. In Ayurveda it can be correlated with Kakshadhara marmabhighata causing Pakshaghata (Paralysis). This case report evaluates the role of Ayurveda management along with rehabilitation exercises in improving functional recovery.

Clinical findings: A 56-year-old male presented with 1 year and 4 months history of weakness of the right upper limb following a road traffic accident. MRI suggested brachial plexus injury with preserved nerve continuity.

Intervention: The patient underwent Ayurveda management including stagewise treatment with rukshana (drying), snehana (Oleation), shodhana (purification), shamana (pacification), and brimhana (nourishing) therapies, both externally and internally, along with rehabilitation exercises.

Results: Gradual improvement was observed in shoulder mobility, muscle strength, girth and overall functional use of the affected limb. Grip strength and coordination improved as well. The DASH score reduced from 55 to 29, indicating improvement in upper limb function. Tinel’s sign became negative, indicating nerve recovery.

Conclusion: The outcome in the present case of post-traumatic postganglionic brachial plexopathy with preserved nerve continuity was satisfactory. Following 2 months of stagewise Ayurvedic management and rehabilitation exercises, improvement was observed in ROM, muscle strength, grip function, and upper limb performance, with benefits maintained during the 2-month follow-up period, suggesting potential role of ayurveda in the conservative management of such cases.

Exploring the Prognostic Utility of Tailabindu Pareeksha in Malignancy - A Pilot Observational Cohort Study

Reshma K, Darshna Pandya, V J Shukla — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Prognosis serve as a critical bridge between diagnosis and treatment. Prognosis can be drawn on the basis of Tailabindu Pareeksha explained under Ashtasthana Pareeksha by Yogaratnakara. This test was popular during the medieval period but got outdated with time. In this test, a drop of sesame oil is dropped over the midstream urine sample and prognosis is predicted on the basis of the direction of spread of oil drop and the shape made by the oil drop after spreading. Malignancy is a grave disease with abnormal growth and uncontrolled proliferation, so given the high morbidity & mortality rates of malignancy, it serves as a convenient disease to study the prognostic aspect. Aim: To evaluate the prognosis of patients with malignancy (irrespective of type) using Tailabindu Pareeksha and compare its results with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group scale and explore the feasibility of MATLAB assisted mathematical prediction model. Materials and method: A total of 26 patients were enrolled in case (Group A) and 25 subjects in healthy group (Group B). Among the 26 enrolled patients, 13 had completed the study with 3 follow-up visits, during which Tailabindu Pareeksha was done and the findings were compared with respective ECOG scales. Result: Outcomes of Tailabindu Pareeksha suggested that the association of shape and direction with ECOG scale were significant (P<0.05) during the initial time but, during the first and second follow up it showed variation in statistical significance. The reduced number of subjects might be a contributing factor for this variation. Conclusion: Tailabindu Pareeksha showed a possible association with changes in scores of ECOG, however due to the pilot nature of the study, limited sample size and participant dropout during follow up, the result should be interpreted cautiously and larger prospective studies are required to further understand its prognostic utility in malignancy.

Retrospective Observational Cohort Study on Quality of Life in Anal Fistula Patients Managed with Ksharasutra, Complete Fistulectomy and Integrated Treatment.

Y M Santosh , Santosh F Patil, Raj Joshi, Ujjwal Gupta — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Bhagandara (Fistula-in-ano) is a disease of the anal canal, for the management of which various surgical procedures and Ksharasutra ligation (KSL) are the majorly performed routine procedures based on the complexity of Fistula-in-ano (FIA). These have variable outcomes affecting the Quality of Life (QoL), which is seen clinically. As there is a lack of data on QoL of patients who are treated with KSL only, Ksharasutra ligation + Partial fistulotomy (KSL+PF), and Complete fistulectomy (CF) so in this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect on QoL in patients who are treated with KSL and KSL+PF and CF. Study design: Retrospective observational cohort study Objectives: To evaluate the effect on QoL in Fistula in Ano (FIA) patients treated with KSL, CF and KSL+PF. Materials and methods: The study included 95 participants treated by KSL, CF, and KSL+PF for complaints of Fistula in Ano at KLE for the duration of 6 years. Observations: The participants were categorized in three groups namely KSL (n=44), CF (n=18), KSL+PF (n=33) based on the type of surgeries performed. Amongst all the participants, simple FIA were 18 whereas complex FIA were 77. The analysis of pain via VAS, VDS and postoperative complications, along with quality of life (QoL) was done where KSL demonstrated significantly better outcomes in comparison to CF across all the domains: Domain 1, Domain 3 and Domain 4 (All p < 0.001). Similarly, KSL+PF has shown significantly better outcomes in comparison to CF across all the domains (all p <0.001) these findings remained significant after adjustment for baseline clinical variables in multivariable regression analysis. Conclusion: KSL & KSL+PF group exhibited better QoL scores compared to CF group. Statistically comparable QoL scores were seen in KSL and KSL+PF but clinically improved QoL was observed in the KSL+PF Group.