International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharma Research

Acute Toxicity Study of Vishatindukadi Vati Prepared by two References: Evaluation of Toxic Effects in Wistar Rats

Rimpal Patel, Kirti Patel — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Acute toxicity studies were conducted to assess the short-term adverse effects of two formulations of Vishatindukadi Vati (VTV1 and VTV2) in rats, as per OECD 423 guidelines. VTV1 contains Kupilu, Maricha, Puga Phala and Chincha Beeja while VTV2 contains Kupilu, Maricha and Bhavana of Nagavalli Patra Svarasa. This study aims to conduct an acute toxicity study of Vishatindukadi Vati, prepared with two references. The experimental procedure involves using female Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus), aged 8 weeks. Each rat weighs between 200 and 300 grams, with a variation of ±20% of the mean weight. A total of 3 animals are used per set for the study. Mortality occurred in all animals administered VTV1 at 2000mg/kg body weight, whereas no mortality was observed in VTV2 at the same dose. VTV1 exhibited toxicity, potentially due to the high concentration of Kupilu, which contains the neurotoxic alkaloids strychnine and brucine. The Bhavana of Nagavalli Patra in VTV2, known for its antidote properties, may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially mitigating toxicity. The LD50 of VTV1 was classified under GHS Category 4 (greater than 300mg/kg), while VTV2 fell under GHS Category 5 or Unclassified (greater than 2000mg/kg). This study emphasizes the significance of Shodhana (purification) processes and antidote substances in mitigating the toxicity of formulations.

Comparative Acute Toxicity Profile of Rasapushpa Prepared by Classical and Conventional Methods

Brahmbhatt Saurav , Kirti Patel, Bharat Kalsariya — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Rasapushpa, an Ayurvedic mercurial preparation, is a very potent formulation due to its therapeutic properties but carries potential risks due to the presence of mercury. The acute toxicity of Rasapushpa, prepared by two distinct methods- the classical Valukayantra method (RPVY) and the conventional Electric Muffle Furnace method (RPEMF)- was assessed in Wistar rats. Using the OECD Test Guideline 423, the study determined the lethal dose (LD₅₀) and observed any clinical signs of toxicity following oral administration. Objectives: To evaluate the Acute toxicity study of Rasapushpa prepared by both methods. Materials and Methods: This comparative Acute toxicity study was conducted at the Ribosome Research Centre, Kudsad, Surat, using two samples of Rasapushpa: RPVY (classical method) and RPEMF (conventional method). By adopting OECD Test Guideline 423. Discussion: Rasapushpa prepared by Valukayantra (RPVY) exhibited LD₅₀ at 300mg/kg body weight, while Rasapushpa prepared by Electric Muffle Furnace (RPEMF) showed LD₅₀ higher than 2000 mg/kg. Conclusion: After human dose conversion, both samples were found safe in the dose range given by Rasatarangini for Rasapushpa (62.5 to 312.5 mg).

Quantification and Bioaccessibility of β-Sitosterol in Lasuna (Allium sativum Linn) Before and After Processed with Taila and its Bioavailability Using CACO-2 Cell Lines

Gayathri J, Priya S, Priyalatha B, Raiby P. Paul — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Lasuna (Allium sativum Linn) is a potent herb, which is widely used in food and in various Ayurvedic formulations. Acharya recommends the use of Lasuna in raw and in processed form. Acaryas have advised to process Lasuna along with Taila in various contexts. As per the studies, the active phytoconstituents of Lasuna tends to decrease as a result of thermal processing. Previous studies reveal the abundance of a phytosterol named β-sitosterol in Lasuna. Based on the recent studies, β-sitosterol possess thermal stability and hydrophobicity and are less bioavailable. β-sitosterol was found to a lipophilic phytonutrient. Since lipophilic phytonutrients are absorbed only after emulsification and micellization, it is necessary to add the raw drug into a suitable vehicle for facilitating the solubility of the lipophilic phytonutrient for improving the solubility and bioavailability. This research aims to determine if the processing of Lasuna with Taila possess the ability to enhance the quantity, bioaccessibility and Bioavailability of β-sitosterol.

Pharmacognostical study of Damanak - Artemisia nilagirica (C.B CLARKE) Pamp.)

Akash P. Chavan, Vivek M. Chaudhari — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Damanak- Artemisia nilagirica is a tall, aromatic, pubescent or villous shrub-like herb found throughout India's hilly regions. The plant has been mentioned in various Nighantu about its use as Hrudya, Vrushya, Grahani, Visha, Kustha, Kleda, Kandu and in Tridosha (disease of all the three Doshas). There are many ethnobotanical uses which indicates this herb should be studied more extensively to confirm these results and reveal other potential therapeutic effects. Davana oil has a deep, mellow, persistent rich fruity odour. Oil of Davana is used in expensive perfume compositions. It is understood that the oil is also being used for flavouring cakes and pastries. This also marks the use of Damanak as commercial plant. The present article intends to study the plant for its pharmacognosy and to know its therapeutic uses mentioned in various Nighantu.

Ayurvedic Management of Sidhma Kushta: An Evidence Based Case Report

Geethu Ramesan K, P M Madhu — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Alteration to the typical skin texture causes mental and physical discomfort for any individuals. There are several skin diseases which affect the person’s psychological status and disturb the social life. Among those conditions psoriasis is most common, the worldwide prevalence of psoriasis is about 2%, but varies according to regions. Psoriasis is a papulosquamous skin disease, was originally thought of as a disorder primarily of epidermal keratinocytes, but is now recognized as one of the commonest immune-mediated disorders. Sidhma kushta is an ayurvedic classification of skin diseases that shares similar symptoms and characteristics. Ayurveda offers a well-defined treatment protocol after analysing the vitiated Dosha and Dooshya. The treatment includes Deepana, Paachana, Shamana, Sodhana and Rasayana. Along with that, patient strictly followed proper Pathyas and avoided all the Apathyas. Takradhara, Snehapaana and Virechana along with external applications gave significant improvement in patient’s condition. With the increasing demand for Ayurvedic intervention in psoriasis management, establishing an evidence-based protocol is essential. This case study provides a systematic assessment for evaluating ayurvedic treatment and employs the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) score to measure improvements in skin conditions. On follow up total appearance of the skin found to be improved and patient’s symptoms reduced well.

Role of Pratimarsh Nasya on Sukh Nidra-Prabodham (Quality of Sleep)

Parul Sharma, K.K. Sharma — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This research study entitled “Role of Pratimarsh Nasya on Sukh Nidra-Prabodham (quality of sleep)” evaluates the effects of Pratimarsha Nasya on improving overall sleep quality in individuals identified as poor sleepers based on a Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score ranging from 5 to 10. The research study, explores the effectiveness of Pratimarsh Nasya, a traditional Ayurvedic therapy, in improving sleep quality among healthy individuals. A total of 150 participants were enrolled and divided into two groups: the intervention group (n=75) received two drops of Murchhit Til Tail (processed sesame oil) intranasally each evening as Pratimarsh Nasya, while the control group (n=75) followed standard sleep hygiene practices, including consistent bedtime routines and environmental adjustments. The intervention spanned a period of two months, during which both groups demonstrated significant improvement in sleep quality. Comparative analysis revealed that the Pratimarsh Nasya group experienced more immediate and pronounced improvement in sleep quality, as indicated by higher percentage relief. However, follow-up assessments suggested that the sleep hygiene group exhibited a lower recurrence of sleep disturbances over time. These findings suggest that Pratimarsh Nasya may offer an effective short-term strategy for enhancing sleep quality, while sleep hygiene practices contribute to more sustained, long-term benefits. No treatment related adverse events were reported in the study. Further research is recommended for underlying mechanisms and long term effects of Nasya therapy on sleep health.

Effect of Vamana Karma in Hypothyroidism

Ayisha M A, Simi Ravindran, Ambili Krishna — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Background: Hypothyroidism is one of the metabolic and lifestyle diseases that is having a high prevalence worldwide. The clinical presentation of hypothyroidism includes tiredness, more sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, a puffy face, a hoarse voice, coarse hair and skin, muscle weakness, muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness, menstrual cycles that are heavier than usual or irregular, thinning hair, a slowed heart rate (bradycardia), depression, and memory problems. In the Ayurvedic perspective, these symptoms can be correlated to Jatharagni and Dhatwagni abnormalities, as well as Kapha dosha anomalies. Hence, in this clinical experiment, Vamana karma will be used to see how it affects hypothyroidism. Because in Ayurveda, the greatest remedy for vitiated Kapha dosha is Vamana karma. Aim and Objective: To evaluate the effect of Vamana karma in hypothyroidism. Methodology: A single subject was administrated with Deepana Pachana, followed by Snehapana, Swedana, Vamana, and Samsargana krama. Result: There are relevant changes in the thyroid profile.

The Role of Local Therapies in Maintaining ENT Health According to Ayurveda

Manasi Raveendra Borkar — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

To maintain the health of the individual along with the Tridoshas, Agni, Saptadhatu, Trimala has to be in synchronization with which the physiology of the individual runs normal. The Urdhwajatru Pradesh is the region in which Kapha Dosha is dominant. All the sensory organs lie in this region. Also, Shira Pradesh is most complex part in this region. The Shira i.e. brain controls all the body systems and all the centers for every activity lies in the brain. The supraclavicular region including the brain, sensory organs- viz., Netra, Karna, Nasa, Jivha, and Mukha, Danta, Gala, Manya, Skandha region comes under this Urdhwajatru terminology according to Ayurveda. The local therapies for Urdhwajatru Avayava can be used for preventive and therapeutic management according to the disease condition. It’s mode of action is depend on the nature of the drug used for the therapy and the structural tissue compliance. Also, it can be modified according to the the Ashthavidh Parikshya Bhava of the individual, Dashvidh Parikhsya Bhava for the specific disease in the individual as mentioned in Ayurveda. Aim- To study the importance of the local therapies in maintaining ENT health. Objectives- To study in detail the action of every local therapy which is beneficial for the management of ENT health. Material & Methods- Literature search from Ayurveda Samhitas to understand Rachana, Kriya and mode of action of local therapies in the Urdhwajatru Pradesh. Discussion- Benefits of the local therapies which can be done for prevention of ENT diseases and also can be modified conveniently to restore healthy life in daily routine. Conclusion- The ENT health can be enhanced by following local therapies, which will be helpful to balance Sthanik Dosha and improves Sthanik Bala

Ayurvedic Management of Herpes Zoster

Avinash A, Seemaja G — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a viral disease caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus. In India, from January 2015 to May 2021, there were 1,269 chickenpox outbreaks, resulting in 27,257 cases. Diagnosis of herpes zoster is based on severe pain, unilateral distribution, and the presence of grouped vesicles on erythematous, edematous skin, which rapidly evolve into pustules and then crust. Complications such as postherpetic neuralgia (10.2-54.7%) and secondary bacterial infections (3.5-21.0%), pose significant challenges in treatment. Contemporary medicine approaches cases with antiviral medications, antihistamines, NSAIDs, topical soothing powders, and symptomatic relief through analgesics. The herpes zoster is understood as vitiation of Tridosha, Twak, Rakta, Mamsa, Lasika and Sweda as per Ayurveda. Due to similar Dosha-dooshya vitiation Loota visha chikitsa and Visarpa chikitsa are being adopted. Dooshivisha chikitsa and Dosha-based management are also being incorporated by some Vaidyas based on individual condition. This case study is focusing on a 53-year-old female patient from Kerala, presented in the outpatient department of Agadatantra, illustrates the practical application of Dosha-based Ayurvedic management. She presented with reddish skin lesions over the right upper back region, extending to the axilla associated with severe pain and burning sensation. This Ayurvedic treatment approach demonstrated significant effect, promotes healing without complications and offers a cost-effective alternative to conventional management. This case study suggests the potential of Ayurvedic management protocol in not only reducing symptoms but also fundamentally addressing the underlying imbalances that contribute to herpes zoster.

The Ayurvedic Management in Graying of Hair

Aswani Krishnan K, Seemaja G — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Premature graying may be due to early depletion of melanocyte reservoir seeding potential owing to environmental factors, inflammation or psychological stress. Reactive oxygen species-mediated damage to mitochondrial and nuclear DNA with mutations with age and dysregulation of anti-oxidant mechanisms or pro/anti-apoptotic factors within the cells results in melanocytic aging. Ayurveda addresses canities as Palithya. Bhrajaka pitha is responsible for imparting natural colour to hair. Ayurveda classics mention it as Sirogatavyadhi (Caraka Samhita), Sirokapalagatavyadhi (Vagbhata) or Khudraroga (Sushruta Samhita). Case presentation: The patient was of age 28 years, female, unmarried moderately built with BMI 21.8, with history of PCOD and migraine. She had presented with greying of hair over vertex region of head. She was of Kaphapitha prakrthi with dietary habits including fast food, spicy food, pickles and mixed diet. She had stress due to work and due to going to work by scooter, she is prone to sunlight exposure and had a habit of helmet wearing. She was given internal medication of Guluchyathi kashayam, Usheerasavam and Chandraprabha vati. Then, she was given Vicharana snehapana with Mahathikthaka ghrta and done Shodhana with Avipathi choornam. Then the Bahya prayoga of Siropichu was done with Prapoundarikadi taila and Rasayana done with Agasthya rasayana. Conclusion: Guluchyathi kashayam, Usheerasavm and Chandraprabha caused balance of Agni in the body, they were Pithasamaka also. Mahatikthaka snehapana reduced dryness and brought Snighdada to the body. The accumulated imbalanced Pitha was eliminated from the body through Virechana by Avipathy choornam. After Shodana, external application as Siropichu with Prapoundarikadi taila which was Palithyahara, Pithahara and Keshya was done. Rasayana was given with Agasthya rasayana. The new hair growth was of black, there was an increase in hair growth and satisfactory reduction in hair fall. There was stress relief and overall coolness of body.

Ayurvedic Management of Infertility

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Infertility is a condition which could affect the entire world. This case study discusses a patient diagnosed with secondary infertility who had a history of one abortion after one year of unprotected sexual life and could not conceive subsequently after that. Considering the chances of abortion and the need for healthy uterus capable of childbirth, ayurvedic treatment plans were adopted. This case was diagnosed as Garbhasravi Vandhyata. Treatment plan included both Shodhana followed by Uthara vasthi and Shamana therapies. As a result of the Ayurvedic interventions made in three courses of treatment, the patient conceived and delivered a healthy baby boy.

Ayurvedic Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Krishnaja K T, Indu P V, Gopikrishna S — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) could be agonizing skin condition that causes skin abscesses and scarring on the skin. It is one of the most distressing dermatological conditions which affects the person’s life quality. Exact cause is unknown, but it occurs in areas rich in apocrine glands such as axilla, groin, peri anal, perineal and infra mammary area etc. This condition is having high psychosocial impact. In Ayurveda it can be considered under Nadi vrana. There are many Chikitsa principles are explained. Management of hidradenitis along with Agadatantra principles needs special attention. Methods: Here we report a case of hidradenitis suppurativa having painful mucopurulent abscesses over both axilla and buttocks. Sodhana and Visha chikitsa principles were used for management of this condition. Results: Purulent discharge and foul smelling completely relieved and thickness of lesion got reduced. Conclusion: Management of skin lesions having chronic onset can be managed with principles of Ayurveda and Visha chikitsa.

Ayurvedic Management of Artava Kshaya

Himanshi Goyal, Harpreet — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Gynecological problems are rising quickly in today's fast-paced and competitive world due to sedentary lifestyles, poor eating habits etc. The menstrual cycle is significantly impacted by changes in both physical and mental health. Menstrual disorders are becoming more common in gynecological practices, which is a sign of infertility and other issues. One prevalent menstruation disorder is Artava kshaya (oligomenorrhoea). As, Artava is Updhatu of Rasa dhatu and modification in Ahara leads to Dushti of Rasa lead to Artava dushti leading to Artava kshaya. Case Report: A female patient of 20 years of age came to OPD of SDACH, Chandigarh, on 25^th November 2023 with chief complaint of delayed menstruation with scanty flow since 6 months. Methodology: Detailed history with all necessary clinical, physical examination and laboratory investigations were carried out. No gross physical and chemical abnormality was found. All the laboratory investigations (including USG and hormonal analysis) were found to be normal. So, the treatment was planned according to the symptoms. Diagnosis was made on the of presenting complaints which was Artava kshaya (oligomenorrhoea). Patient was treated with Nasthapushpanthak Rasa and Krishana Tila Kwath along with diet and lifestyle modification for 3 consecutive cycles. Patient was kept on follow up for 3 cycles after cessation of all medications. Result: Patient had got her menstruation regularly with normal duration while taking medicine. Also, the amount of flow was also improved and intensity of pain was reduced effectively from moderate to mild. Even after cessation of medicine she got her menstruation in 32 days with normal amount of flow.

Review on Rasachandrika Rajavaidyam

Bibitha B, Sreeni TV — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Rasasastra is a specialized branch of Ayurveda that integrates ancient alchemical practices with traditional Ayurvedic practices, aiming to enhance health, longevity and spiritual wellness. The practice of Rasasastra varies from one region to another. While the origin of Rasasastra can be traced to ancient India with classical texts such as Rasarṇava and Rasaratna Samuccaya, Kerala has contributed significantly to the evolution of this discipline, particularly through the integration of local medicinal practices and influences from the Siddha system. Kerala’s Rasasastra is a unique blend of Ayurvedic and Siddha traditions. The close cultural and geographical proximity between Kerala and Tamil Nadu fostered significant interactions between Ayurveda and the Siddha system of medicine. Siddha, with its emphasis on the therapeutic and alchemical use of minerals, metals, and mercurial preparations, played a transformative role in shaping Kerala’s Rasasastra practices. Rasachandrika rajavaidya is a Rasasastra textbook written in Malayalam language, which mainly focus on the processing of Parada for therapeutic purposes. This manuscript is presented with guidelines of Parada bandhana with different Satwas. This textbook serves as an important reference text for Rasavaidyas for designing and development of drugs.

Review on Malahara Kalpanas Indicated in Vipadika

Binusree Vijayan, R. Rajam — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Malahara Kalpana can be regarded as a traditional Ayurvedic ointment preparation. Depending on the intended application, these formulations usually have a base of Siktha taila together with powdered herbal, metallic, or mineral drugs. Beeswax and Tila taila are combined in a ratio of either 1:6 or 1:5 to make Siktha taila. Vipadika is one of the skin disorders that Malahara Kalpanas are used to heal. Vipadika, often referred to as cracked feet, is a common but neglected volar skin condition. It is characterized by Darana (cracks), Kandu (itching), and Vedana (pain). Due to its properties of oleation, cleansing, healing, and scar reduction, Malahara Kalpana is beneficial for treating Vipadika. This paper aims to discuss the possible actions of Malahara preparations indicated for the treatment of Vipadika.

Understanding the Role of Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) in Enhancing Female Fertility a Traditional Perspective

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is a prominent medicinal herb utilized in Ayurveda, primarily recognized for its benefits in supporting female reproductive health. This review investigates its potential to enhance female fertility by examining its phytochemical makeup, pharmacological properties, and therapeutic uses. It discusses both traditional and contemporary viewpoints regarding Shatavari's effectiveness in improving reproductive health, supported by various scientific studies. Additionally, the review highlights Shatavari’s adaptogenic qualities, its function in managing polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and its effects on mental and emotional health concerning fertility. The underlying mechanisms through which Shatavari works- such as hormonal regulation, antioxidant properties, and immune system support- are also analyzed. Moreover, the clinical applications of Shatavari in treating menstrual irregularities, pregnancy-related issues, lactation, and menopause symptoms are considered. Although current findings suggest significant benefits of Shatavari in promoting fertility, further extensive clinical trials are necessary to determine its efficacy, optimal dosage, and safety. The herb's cultural importance in traditional medicine, along with its increasing recognition in integrative healthcare systems, underscores the urgency for continued research. This review aims to furnish a thorough understanding of Shatavari's significance in female reproductive health and its implications for future research endeavors and clinical applications.

Rasayana - A Solution to Menopausal Syndrome

Saswatha S Warrier, Savita S Patil — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Introduction: The growth of a country depends on the population, including both youth and old age, in which 48% of female will suffer from menopausal complications at one point of life. Acharyas have mention very few references on Rajonivritti. They have mentioned fifty years as the age of Rajonivritti. The concept behind the age of Rajonivritti is that Raja is byproduct of Rasadhatu which function better in Tarunavastha and its function reduces with age. Rajonivritti is a physiological process but when it causes discomfort either to mind or body it attains Vyadhisvarupa which may require medical interference. Sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy habits are one of the main causes for metabolic imbalance which leads to Rajonivruthi Lakshanas which manifest as Vyadhi. Method: This article has been made by reviewing various Samhitas, Nighantus, Sangrahas, Granthas to attain proper knowledge about the effect of Rasayana in improving the quality of life after menopause and in reducing Rajonivrithi Lakshana. Discussion: Acharya Sushruta contributed aging and diseases as the cause for the menopause. According to Jararog Chikitsasutra - Rasayana is the only way to combat symptoms associated with Jara. Result: By definition Rasayana, ‘Labhopayo hi shastanam Rasadinam Rasayanam’. As menopause is often associated with aging, it is signified by Dhatu Kshaya and Vata vitiation. Rasayana acts on the nutritional dynamics and rejuvenate the body on both physical and mental level. By proper administration of Rasayana therapy as preventive tool one can help in reducing the complication in menopause and can improve the quality of life. Hence the importance of Rasayana is highlighted here.

Achieving Equilibrium in Ayurveda: The Role of Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala in Promoting Wellness

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Ayurveda, the oldest Indian medicine system, focuses on the balance of Dosha (bio-energies), Dhatu (tissues), and Mala (waste products)- the essences of which is critical to the health. The article explores prerequisites for health in Bharatiya (Indian) lifestyle - Samyata (equilibrium) of Dosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), Dhatu (seven bodily tissues) and Mala (urine, feces, sweat). This study narratively reviews classical Ayurvedic texts and modern interpretations to illustrate their roles and interrelationships as well as practical strategies for maintaining equilibrium. The results emphasize that lifestyle factors, which include diet (Ahara), daily routine (Dinacharya) and mental well-being (Manas) are essential to achieving Samyata. These principles, still relevant in our contemporary health discourse, provide a guide to holistic preventive and therapeutic care. This research validates Ayurveda’s eternal principles for sustainable well-being.