Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences (JAIMS)
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The Ayurveda Way - Holistic Geriatric Care for A Healthy Old Age
Aging is an inevitable and progressive biological process that affects the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of an individual. Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, provides a holistic approach to geriatric care, focusing on maintaining health, preventing age-related disorders, and promoting longevity. The concept of Jara (aging) is primarily associated with Vata Dosha aggravation, leading to degenerative changes in the body. Dravyaguna Vijnana (Ayurvedic pharmacology) plays a crucial role in geriatric care by utilizing various Rasayana (rejuvenate) herbs and formulations that enhance strength, immunity, cognitive function, and overall vitality. Ayurvedic interventions, including Medhya Rasayana (nootropic herbs), Balya and Brimhana Dravyas (strength-promoting substances), and age-specific dietary regimens, are effective in preventing and managing common geriatric disorders such as Sandhivata (osteoarthritis), Smriti Hani (memory loss), Pandu Roga (anemia), and Jatharagni Mandya (digestive weakness). Along with herbal medicine, therapies like Panchakarma, Abhyanga (oil massage), Swedana (herbal fomentation), and Shirodhara play a significant role in promoting physical and mental well-being in old age. This article explores the role of Dravyaguna in holistic geriatric care, highlighting Ayurvedic pharmacological principles, therapeutic herbs, and formulations that support healthy aging and longevity
Effect of Savasana in Anidra with special reference to Insomnia
Chronic insomnia (Anidra) significantly impacts quality of life, leading to various health complications. Conventional treatments often come with side effects, prompting the exploration of complementary and alternative therapies. Savasana, a Yogic relaxation technique, is known for its calming effects and potential to improve sleep. Savasana has been shown to have significant emotional benefits. By reducing stress and anxiety, Savasana helps individuals develop a greater sense of emotional resilience. This can help address insomnia that is rooted in emotional distress, such as depression or anxiety. Savasana, therefore, not only helps with the physical aspect of sleep but also addresses the emotional triggers that contribute to insomnia. This study investigates the efficacy of Savasana in managing Anidra, particularly chronic insomnia
Unravelling Sciatica: Insights into Gridhrasi from Ayurvedic Classics
Gridhrasi, commonly equated with Sciatica in modern medical terminology, is a debilitating condition characterized by radiating pain along the course of the sciatic nerve. Ayurveda describes Gridhrasi as a disorder predominantly caused by vitiation of Vata Dosha, often accompanied by Kapha, resulting in pain, stiffness, and restricted mobility. The condition derives its name from the characteristic limping gait of affected individuals, resembling a vulture (Gridhra). Modern medical science attributes Sciatica to nerve root compression or irritation, frequently due to herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative changes in the lumbar spine. Though technological advancements have improved diagnostics and treatment modalities, the chronic and recurrent nature of Sciatica necessitates a holistic management approach. Ayurveda offers a unique perspective through Panchakarma therapies, Shamana Chikitsa (palliative care), and lifestyle modifications. The integration of Ayurvedic practices with contemporary medical interventions has demonstrated promising results, warranting further exploration of their combined efficacy. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of Gridhrasi, examining its etiology, pathophysiology, and therapeutic approaches from both Ayurvedic and modern perspectives. By analyzing classical references alongside current evidence, this work endeavors to underscore the relevance and effectiveness of traditional practices in addressing this persistent clinical challenge. The study specifically focuses on the Ayurvedic classification, underlying pathophysiology, and etiological factors of Gridhrasi, contributing to a deeper understanding of its holistic management
Role of Nasya Karma in Hormonal Imbalance Related - Gynaecological Disorder
Hormonal imbalances significantly contribute to the onset of various gynecological disorders, impacting menstrual health, fertility. These imbalances frequently arise from disruptions within the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, compounded by stress, environmental influences, and lifestyle choices. Traditional treatments typically emphasize hormonal replacement therapy and medications, which can result in long-term adverse effects. In contrast, Ayurveda presents holistic treatment options, notably Nasya Karma, a key therapy within Panchakarma. Nasya is recognized for its effects on the HPO axis, assisting in the regulation of endocrine functions and the restoration of hormonal balance through its direct influence on the central nervous system. This article delves into the pathways through which Nasya affects the neuroendocrine system, detailing its impact on enhancing neurotransmitter activity, improving blood flow to endocrine glands, and facilitating detoxification. It also thoroughly examines the application of Nasya therapy for conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, infertility, and menopausal symptoms. Additionally, it emphasizes the advantages of specific Ayurvedic herbs and oils utilized in Nasya therapy, including Brahmi, Jatamansi, Shatavari, and Yashtimadhu, highlighting their adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and hormonal-regulating properties. By combining Nasya with lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and stress reduction techniques, Ayurveda offers a well-rounded and natural strategy for addressing hormonal imbalances. While initial evidence points to its effectiveness, further research and clinical trials are needed to validate its benefits and comprehend its long-term effects. Nasya presents considerable potential as a natural solution for enhancing women’s reproductive health, serving as a non-invasive, sustainable, and alternative for hormonal regulation and overall wellness
Ayurveda in Sports: Unveiling the Ancient Wisdom for Modern Athletic Excellence
Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine, offers a holistic approach to enhancing athletic performance, recovery, and overall health. This paper explores the principles of Ayurvedic nutrition and lifestyle, focusing on balancing the three Doshas - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha - according to an individual\u27s Prakriti (constitution) for optimal physical activity. The study emphasizes how Ayurvedic foods and herbs, such as Ashwagandha, Triphala, and Haridra, can boost energy, stamina, and recovery. Additionally, the role of Agni (digestive fire) is highlighted, showing its crucial role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall performance. Post-exercise recovery strategies and Ayurvedic practices like Yoga, Pranayama, and proper sleep are also discussed for maintaining balance and improving performance. This paper demonstrates how the time-tested principles of Ayurveda can complement modern athletic training, leading to long- term health, balance, and peak performance
Raktapradoshaja Vikara and their Upakrama
In Ayurveda, Rakta Dhatu (blood tissue) is an important component responsible for nourishing the body and maintaining life. It plays a vital role in nourishment, oxygenation, immunity and overall vitality. Rakta is primarily governed by Pitta Dosha and its normalcy or vitiation influences both physical and mental wellbeing. When Rakta gets vitiated due to various factors (like Pitta aggravation, Ama accumulation, and external toxins), it leads to Rakta Pradoshaja Vikara - diseases primarily affecting the skin, blood circulation and overall metabolism. A class of disorders known as "Rakta Pradoshaja Vikara" in Ayurveda are primarily linked to the vitiation or imbalance of Rakta (blood) during the Sharada Ritu, Rakta can be vitiated to cause a variety of conditions, from dermatitis, rashes, and boils to more serious conditions including anaemia, jaundice, and blood-related issues. Ayurvedic medicine, which emphasizes the use of herbal remedies, purifying and cleaning procedures, and dietary adjustments to restore balance, is being used to treat Rakta Pradoshaja Vikara. In the Upakrama treatment, Acharyas emphasize Raktashodhana (blood purification) and Rakta Prasadana (Blood nourishment) through Shodhana (purification therapies) - Raktamokshana (bloodletting), Virechana (Purgation), Basti (Enema) and Shamana (Palliative therapies) through Herbal decoctions made with specific herbal formulations like Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), and Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) are used to purify the blood and decreases symptoms, Rasayana (Rejuvenation) and Pathya-Apathya (Dietary & Lifestyle Corrections) - Cooling foods, avoiding Pitta aggravating factors. Modifying one\u27s lifestyle to incorporate practices like stress management, adequate sleep, and a Pitta-balancing diet is another way to aid in the healing process. Apart from managing the signs and symptoms of the imbalanced Rakta Dosha, this all-encompassing strategy aims to address the root cause of the problem to avoid recurrence
Cross Sectional Observational Study of Rasa Dhatu Dushti in Known Diabetic Patients of Chronic Kidney Disease (C.K.D.)
The rising incidence of CKD in Indian population is likely to pose major problems for healthcare and the economy in future years. In known diabetic patients of CKD, study of Rasa Dhatu Dushti is important for understanding the role of Rasa Dhatu in Samprapti of CKD. Aim is to assess Rasa Dhatu Dushti in known diabetic patients of chronic kidney disease on dialysis. Objectives are to assess Rasa Dhatu Kshaya, Vruddhi Lakshanas as per Vagbhata and Rasa Dhatu Dushti Lakshanas as per Charaka Samhita and analyse their severity as per the stages in known Diabetic patients of CKD on dialysis. Known diabetic patients of CKD on dialysis of age group 30-70 year and both genders were selected from dialysis centre. A Case Record Form was design for incorporating Lakshanas of different types of Rasa Dhatu Dushti. The stage of CKD is calculated on the basis of Sr. creatinine and Blood Urea reports collected from the patients. On the basis of grading of Lakshanas, the subjects are divided into Mild, Moderate and Severe Rasa Dhatu Vruddhi, Kshaya and Dushti Lakshanas. It is observed that Rasa Dhatu Kshaya, Vruddhi and Dushti remain highly prevalent across all CKD stages. More than 50 % of Rasa Kshaya Lakshanas were observed in 71 patients, Rasa Vruddhi Lakshanas in 40 patients and Rasa Dushti lakshanas in 7 patients. On the basis of outcome of observation and discussion, it is concluded that all types of Rasa Dhatu Dushti (predominantly Rasa Kshayatmaka Dushti) in all stages is present in known diabetic patients CKD on dialysis. Treatment of Rasa Dhatu is important to retard the disease progression
Critical Analysis of Anti-Cancerous Activity of Herbs with special reference to Bhavaprakasha Samhita Arbudha Chikitsa - A Conceptual Review
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. In 2022, nearly 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths were reported globally. Most common cancers are breast, lung, colon, rectum and prostate cancers. Pathophysiology of cancer is near to the concept of Arbudha. Arbudha is Tridosha Janya Vyadhi with involvement of Rakta, Mamsa and Meda Dhatu. Bhavaprakasha Samhita is a classical Ayurvedic text by Acharya Bhavamishra, part of Laghutrayi mentioned Lepa in the Arbudha Chikitsa. Literature review about cancer, Arbudha and herbs information was collected from various contemporary textual references, classical Ayurvedic literature and online database. Herbs mentioned in Arbudha Chikitsa have Katu, Tiktha, and Kashaya Rasa, Laghu, Ruksha, Tikshna Guna which acts effectively on Arbudha. These Drugs possesses alkaloids, high content of phenols and flavonoids which helps in the inhibition of cancer cells. Studies have shown clear evidence that these herbs have efficacy in preventing and treating cancer thereby herbs mentioned by Acharya Bhavamishra is relevant based on the research updates. Furthermore, Clinical research needs to be conducted to know the therapeutic efficacy
Therapeutic Potentials of Kulatha: A Comprehensive Ayurvedic and Pharmacological Review
Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc., the botanical name for the drug Kulatha, is an annual leguminous herb that is a member of the Fabaceae family. It is mentioned under Shimbi Dhanya of Annadravya Varga in classical ayurvedic texts. It has Ruksha, Laghu and Tikshna Guna, Katu, Kashaya and Tikta Rasa, Ushna Veerya, and Katu Vipaka. Owing to its Ushna Veerya and Katu Vipaka, it acts as a potent Kapha–Vata Shamana Dravya. The seeds of Kulatha are attributed with Ashmarighna, Shothahara, Lekhana, and Krimighna properties in the Ayurvedic pharmacopeia. Its Lekhana and Mutrala actions make it suitable for Medoroga and Mutravaha Srotodushti. Modern studies report the presence of active compounds such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and saponins, which contribute to its antiurolithiatic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hypolipidemic effects. These pharmacological actions validate its traditional use in urinary disorders, metabolic imbalance, and inflammatory conditions. Despite being a potent medicinal legume with both preventive and therapeutic potential, Kulatha remains underutilized in both clinical and dietary applications. This review aims to present a comprehensive account of Kulatha’s Ayurvedic attributes, classical formulations, and therapeutic applications alongside relevant modern research, with a vision to review its relevance in contemporary Ayurvedic practice
Ayurvedic management of Vishada - Psychotherapeutic relevance of Satvavajaya Chikitsa in Modern Depression Care
Mental illness disorders, particularly depression, represent a significant public health issue globally, and the World Health Organization has identified them as a leading cause of disability worldwide. While conventional psychiatric treatments are beneficial for many, they often come with side effects, dependency, and relapse. Ayurveda, as traditional Indian medicine, offers a holistic and integrated approach to mental health. Vishada, a syndrome described in Ayurvedic classics, surprisingly parallels the modern syndrome of depression regarding etiology and symptomatology. Among the three fundamental therapeutic modalities of Ayurveda, Ayurvedic psychotherapy, or Satvavajaya Chikitsa, specifically addresses the mental and emotional aspects of Vishada. This review outlines the syndrome of Vishada, its etiology, and its correlation with contemporary concepts of depression. It emphasizes the principles, mechanisms, and practices of Satvavajaya Chikitsa, including the development of Dhi (intellect), Dhairya (bravery), and Smriti (memory), as well as practices such as introspection, mantra repetition, spiritual guidance, and meditation discipline. The article discusses global epidemiological trends over the past decade to contextualize the rising burden of depression and the value of non-pharmacological, mind-based interventions. Additionally, it explores the potential future integration of Satvavajaya with psychotherapeutic techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This timeless yet traditional method may provide a beneficial, culturally relevant, and comprehensive approach to fostering psychological resilience and sustainably managing depression