International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine
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Traditional Education in Mahakumbh
The Mahakumbh, held at the confluence of the sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, is an ancient spiritual and cultural event that offers profound lessons on unity, tradition, and faith. Rooted deeply in Indian culture, the Mahakumbh is not just a religious gathering, but a representation of the educational values passed through generations. It embodies the ideals of \u27Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam\u27 or the concept that the world is one family, promoting harmony across diverse cultures. This article explores how the Mahakumbh serves as an open university, imparting education through its rituals, collective participation, and cultural exchanges. It emphasizes the role of the Kumbh in educating humanity about tradition, faith, and cultural pride, as well as the importance of unity in diversity. Furthermore, the article highlights how modern technological advancements, such as QR codes, are integrated into this sacred event, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation. The Mahakumbh thus becomes a global symbol of spiritual, cultural, and social education, providing invaluable teachings for individuals and societies at large
Immuno-Modulatory activity of Mukta Bhasma (Calx of Cultured Pearls)
Objective: Immune activation is an effective as well as protective approach against emerging infectious diseases. To screen for in-vitro immuno-modulatory activity of Mukta Bhasma (Calx of cultured Pearl) on human neutrophils. Methods: Mukta Bhasma (MB) was subjected to In-vitro screening to assess its Immunomodulatory effect using the Nitroblue Tetrazolium (NBT) assay, Phagocytosis & Candidacidal assay, Neutrophil locomotion and Chemotaxis test at five different doses of test drug (1mg, 0.5mg, 0.25mg, 0.125mg, 0.06mg). Results: Mukta bhasma has shown significant (p<0.001) increase in the % of NBT- stimulated cells and candida cells at 0.06mg. MB 0.125mg and MB 0.25 mg showed significant increase (p<0.01) in the candida cells when compared to MB 1.0mg. MB 0.06mg shows significant (p<0.001) increase in the phagocytic activity when compared to other doses of MB. MB showed significant (p<0.001) neutrophil and chemotactic activity at the dose of 0.06 mg and 0.125 mg. Mukta bhasma has shown significant(p<0.001) increase in all the parameters at the dose of 0.06 mg when compared to other doses of MB. Conclusion: The results were self-conclusive and indicated that Mukta Bhasma is immune- potent and showed immuno-modulatory effect at lower doses. Thus, the study revalidates the reference of Mukta Bhasma as a Rasayan and hence also establishing it as an Immunomodulator.
Management of Ascites (Jalodar) with Ayurvedic formulations: A Case Report
An unnatural buildup of fluid in peritoneal cavity is known as Ascites. There are many etiological reasons, but Liver Cirrhosis is most frequent one. It can be correlated with Jalodar, which is one of the important types of Udarroga (Disease of abdomen) and it has been described in Charak, Sushruta, Ashtanghridaya. This case of Ascites includes Udaravriddhi (Abdominal distension), Ubhaypada Shotham (Bipedal edema), Nakha, Netra, Twak Peet Varniya (mild icterus), Anorexia (Aruchi) and generalized weakness (Daurbalya). The patient had a history of chronic alcoholism but neither diabetes nor hypertension. He was treated in accordance with the Charak Samhita description of Jalodar’s treatment principles, which include such as Nityavirechan (daily purgation) by using Ayurvedic medications, Strotoshodhan (microchannels cleaning) and few Ayurvedic hepatoprotective drugs. All of the patient’s above-mentioned complaints, were completely resolved. USG (abdomen) repeated after 1 month showed no ascites and there was significant improvement in values of LFT and KFT. The favorable outcomes of this study encourage researchers to carry out more studies to establish an Ayurvedic Jalodar (ascites) treatment plan.
Hair Medulla and its variations in Doshaja Prakruti – An observational study
Background: Dosha specific external appearance of hair and diseases related to hair have been described in Ayurveda but description of its internal structure is lacking. Hair tissue has been extensively studied in modern anatomy with reference to its types, regional variations, and microscopic structure. The medulla forms the inner core of the hair and has been associated with strength, stability and appearance of the same. This raises the possibility of medullary patterns of hair being Prakruti specific. An observational study was conducted in healthy individuals of specific Dwandvaja Prakruti to visualize the medullary pattern in their hair and search for a Prakruti specific association. Objective: To observe the medullary pattern in the hair of specific Dwandvaja Prakruti and search for association between the two. Methods: 180 healthy participants, aged 18–25 years, were classified into six Dwandvaja Prakruti types and their hair samples were collected and examined microscopically. Descriptive statistical methods were used to analyze the findings, with comparison across Prakruti groups and gender. Results: Distinct variations in hair medulla were observed across the Prakruti groups. The Kapha- Vata group showed the highest proportion of continuous (33%) and solid medulla (20%), while the Vata-Pitta group presented none (47%) and fragmented medulla (23%). A pattern of greater structural integrity was observed in Kapha-dominant individuals, while Vata-dominant individuals exhibited more instability in the medulla structure. Conclusion: This study establishes a potential link between Dwandvaja Prakruti types and medullary hair patterns with Kapha-dominant Prakruti showing stronger hair integrity, while Vata and Pitta-dominant types associated with weaker, fragmented, or absent medullae. Observing medullary hair patterns can assist Prakruti assessment and contribute to Dosha-specific hair care regimens and preventive strategies for evidence-based Ayurvedic trichology
A study on the development of the validated Asthi Sara Assessment Inventory (ASAI)
Ayurveda has advocated the Dhatu sara pareeksha under Dashvidha Aatura Pareeksha (ten ways to examine the patient) for the assessment of functional state of Dhatu (bodily tissues) and Manas (Mind). The body is composed of Dosha, Dhatu and Mala. There are seven types of Dhatu, refers to structural component and functional framework of the body, playing a pivotal role in maintaining health and well-being. However, there are individual differences in the functional state of Dhatus inherently as per Prakriti (psychosomatic constitution). Sara refers to the best form of dhatu that signifies to determine an individual\u27s Bala (biological strength of body and mind), and age of the patient. Assessment of Dhatu Sarata is particularly beneficial in numerous domains, such as evaluating strength (Bala), Immunity (vyadhikshamatva), and the management of disease. To examine Sara, certain characteristics related to each type of Dhatu have been described which may be categorised as physical, physiological and psychological traits. In the characteristics of Asthisara Purush the size, prominence and measurement of certain bones and joints have been mentioned that are big and prominent along with certain psychological traits. Although the Dhatusara assessment profoma is available but no validated tool is available to assess the Asthisara with certain objective parameters. Thus, there is need to develop a validated Asthi Sara Assessment Inventory (ASAI) to ensure inclusivity, reproducibility, and ease of use for clinical and research purposes
A clinical study on Masha-madhu-sarpi yoga in the management of Ksheenashukra with special reference to Oligozoospermia
Introduction: Oligozoospermia, a major cause of male infertility, is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a sperm concentration below 15 million/ml of semen. In Ayurveda, it correlates with Ksheena Shukra, characterized by reduced semen quantity and impaired reproductive function. Methods:A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 90 subjects aged 32–45 years diagnosed with Ksheena Shukra (Oligozoospermia). Participants were randomly divided into two groups (45 each): Trial group (MMSY): Received Mashamadhusarpi Yoga (Masha + Madhu + Sarpi) before meals with milk.Control group (AG): Received Ashwagandha Churna.The intervention was given for 90 consecutive days. Outcomes were assessed using seminal parameters (semen volume, sperm count, motility, morphology, liquefaction time) and Pratyatmaka Lakshanas of Ksheena Shukra, along with the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire for Men (CSFQ-M).Results:The trial group showed statistically significant improvements in semen volume (p=0.000), sperm count (p=0.001), and liquefaction time (p=0.000) compared to control. A significant improvement was also observed in CSFQ-M scores (p=0.002), indicating enhanced sexual function.Conclusion: Mashamadhusarpi Yoga demonstrated significant efficacy in improving seminal parameters and sexual function in men with Oligozoospermia. Its nutritional, antioxidative, and Rasayana properties make it a promising dietary intervention for male infertility
Protective role of methanolic extract of Cleome viscosa L. and Cleome gynandra L. on carbohydrate metabolic enzymes in STZ - induced diabetic rats
Aim: This study investigates the antihyperglycemic and hepatoprotective effects of methanolic extracts of Cleome viscosa L. (MeCV) and Cleome gynandra L. (MeCG) in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Over 28 days, body weight and fasting blood glucose levels were monitored weekly. Additionally, key metabolic enzyme activities, including fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBP-1,6), glucose-6-phosphatase (G-6-P), hexokinase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6PDH), were analyzed to assess hepatoprotective effects. Results: On the 28th day, diabetic control rats exhibited severe hyperglycaemia (402±11.41 mg/dL) and significant weight loss (108.33±4.01 g). MeCV-treated rats (400 mg/kg b.w.) showed a slight weight increase (+0.92%) and a substantial reduction in fasting blood glucose levels, demonstrating better glycemic control than MeCG. Compared to diabetic controls, MeCV significantly increased hexokinase and G-6-P activity by 55.82% and 127.15%, respectively, while reducing G-6PDH and FBP-1,6 activity, supporting its role in glucose metabolism regulation. MeCV and MeCG restored total carbohydrate levels in liver tissues, counteracting STZ-induced depletion. However, MeCV was more effective, nearly matching glibenclamide in enhancing glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis. It also normalized hepatic glucose and glycogen levels more efficiently than MeCG, likely by improving insulin sensitivity and modulating key metabolic enzymes. Conclusion: These findings highlight MeCV’s strong antihyperglycemic and hepatoprotective potential, making it a promising candidate for diabetes management. Further research is needed to identify its active compounds and elucidate their mechanisms of action
Exploring the Analgesic Properties of Deodaru (Cedrus deodara) Ointment: A Pilot Study
Cedrus deodara (Roxb. ex D. Don), a member of the Pinaceae family, has been widely utilized in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, Unani, and Chinese medicine, for its therapeutic properties [1]. It has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, neuroprotective, antiurolithiatic, and antiarthritic activities [2]. This study seeks to assess the pain-relieving properties of Cedrus deodara ointment and its effectiveness in pain management. The essential oil and its bioactive compounds derived from Cedrus deodara have shown significant pharmacological actions by modulating inflammatory mediators and pain pathways [3]. Experimental and preliminary clinical studies suggest its potential as a natural analgesic agent, but further research is required to establish its mechanism of action, dosage standardization, and safety profile for therapeutic use [4]. This study compiles existing literature and experimental findings to explore the viability of Cedrus deodara as a promising alternative for pain relief
Advancements and Innovations in Herbal and non-herbal, Self-Micro emulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SMEDDS): A Comprehensive Review
Self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) formulations have emerged as crucial methods for improving the bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. However, they exhibit several limitations, including oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids, restricted lymphatic absorption, handling challenges, in vivo drug precipitation, a lack of predictive in vitro research—and their high surfactant content can cause gastrointestinal irritation. These factors can impede their broader application. Incorporating precipitation inhibitors or polymers within lipid-based formulations helps maintain drug supersaturation after dispersion, thereby reducing exposure variability and enhancing bioavailability. Converting liquid SMEDDS into solid forms also addresses issues related to liquid handling and stability. This review highlights recent developments, such as the use of nanotechnology, innovative excipients, and solidification techniques in the formulation of herbal SMEDDS. It also evaluates their advantages and drawbacks in drug delivery, with a particular focus on key performance parameters like droplet size, zeta potential, and stability. Additionally, self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) show considerable promise for improving the bioavailability and solubility of poorly water-soluble herbal extracts by encapsulating them in nanoemulsions. In summary, SMEDDS offer a viable oral platform for administering poorly soluble medications and herbal extracts, with the potential to significantly enhance therapeutic outcomes. For wider clinical adoption, however, challenges related to formulation stability, scalable manufacturing, and regulatory compliance must be addressed. Future research should aim to overcome these barriers and expand SMEDDS applications across diverse therapeutic areas
Curcumin Reimagined: Harnessing Ionic Liquid Salts for Enhanced Bioavailability and Therapeutic Potential
Curcumin, the principal bioactive compound of Curcuma longa, has long been celebrated for its potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. However, its clinical potential has been severely constrained by poor aqueous solubility, low chemical stability, and rapid systemic elimination, resulting in limited bioavailability. Recent advances in pharmaceutical chemistry have explored novel strategies to overcome these limitations, with ionic liquid salts (ILS) emerging as a promising platform. This review delves into the transformative potential of converting curcumin into ionic liquid salts—either through protonation, salt formation with organic or inorganic cations, or as part of dual-functionalized therapeutic ionic liquids. These modifications significantly enhance curcumin’s solubility, permeability, and stability, offering a new paradigm in drug delivery and formulation. The article systematically examines various synthetic approaches, physicochemical characteristics, and in vitro/in vivo studies that demonstrate the superior therapeutic efficacy of curcumin-ILS formulations. Additionally, it explores their potential applications across diverse biomedical domains, including cancer therapy, neuroprotection, antimicrobial coatings, and inflammation regulation. The biocompatibility and tunability of ILS-based systems also make them attractive for targeted and controlled release formulations. Despite promising developments, challenges related to toxicity, scalability, and regulatory approval remain. Future directions include designing task-specific ionic liquids to further tailor curcumin\u27s pharmacokinetics and therapeutic profile