Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences (JAIMS)
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Lactation and Nutrition (0–1 year): An Integrative Approach with Ayurveda and Modern Insights
No full textIntroduction: Breast milk is universally recognized as the optimal nutrition for infants. Ayurveda regards Stanya as equivalent to Rasa Dhatu, providing nourishment, immunity, and psychosocial well-being. Modern pediatrics also recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding with complementary feeding up to two years or beyond. This review integrates Ayurvedic principles with contemporary guidelines on lactation and infant nutrition.
Methods: A comprehensive review of Ayurvedic classical texts, including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Kashyapa Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, was conducted alongside modern evidence-based literature from WHO, UNICEF, AAP, IAP, and indexed journals. Data on breastfeeding techniques, safe and contraindicated medications, Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), human milk banking, and complementary feeding practices were compiled.
Results: Ayurvedic literature highlights the supremacy of Stanya for infant growth and development and prescribes rituals such as Annaprashana to transition to solid foods. Modern guidelines emphasize correct breastfeeding techniques, exclusive breastfeeding for six months, and safe pharmacotherapy during lactation. KMC is recommended for its role in thermal regulation, bonding, and improved neonatal survival, particularly in low-birth-weight infants. Human milk banks ensure equitable access to breast milk when the mother’s own milk is unavailable. Complementary feeding, beginning at six months, should be gradual, balanced, and culturally adapted, aligning with Ayurvedic emphasis on laghu (light) and freshly prepared foods.
Conclusion: Ayurveda and modern science share converging perspectives on the primacy of breastfeeding, safe infant feeding practices, and the holistic approach to neonatal nutrition. Incorporating both traditional practices like Annaprashana and modern interventions such as milk banking and KMC ensures optimal child health outcomes. This integrative approach offers a comprehensive framework for promoting lactation and infant nutrition in the first year of life
The Role of the Champakadi Agada in the management of Chikungunya
No full textChikungunya is prevalent in India, and the number of cases has been increasing. The disease is endemic in many states and union territories. Between January 2019 and July 2024, there were nearly 370,000 cases. Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. There are currently no medicines to treat chikungunya. The best way to prevent chikungunya is to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Vaccination is recommended for some travellers. Till date, there is no vaccination or proper treatment available worldwide. In Ayurveda, there is no direct reference is available but a trace of some shows that chikungunya can be correlated with Kitaka Damshaja Vyadhi (Insect bite) because it transmitted by mosquito’s bite. So, in Ayurveda classical references like Ashtang Hrudaya, the treatment for Kitaka Damsh is properly given. Among that all medicines Champakadi Agada contains Haridra, Daruharidra, Raktachandana, Manjishtha, Tagar, Nagkeshar like drugs and plays a significant role in reducing the signs and symptoms of Chikungunya. Hencethis study has been selected for the further study
Role of Ayurveda and Selected Yoga Practices In Agnidushti w.s.r. to Hypothyroidism - A Case Report
No full textImproper functioning of Agni is the root cause of all diseases as per Ayurveda. Jatharagni, five types of Bhutagni and seven types of Dhatvagni helps in the metabolic transformations which occurs after the consumption of food. In the present era, unhealthy and sedentary lifestyle, increasing intake of fast food and faulty eating habits play an important role in Agnidushti. In Ayurveda clinical symptoms of this disease closely resemble Agnimandya. Hypothyroidism is a metabolic disorder with deficiency of thyroid gland hormones.So, in metabolic diseases like Hypothyroidism, correcting the Agnidushti is of prime importance. It is a common health issue globally affecting 5% of total population and its prevalence in India is 10-11%. Thyroid Hormone is required for the normal functioning of each and every tissue of the body, hence deficiency manifest as multi system involvement. Untreated Hyothyroidism may lead to hypertension, dyslipidaemia, infertility, cognitive impairment and neuromuscular dysfunction. There are various modern treatments available, but its long term use may lead to various side effects. Intervention of Ayurveda and Yoga practices in daily life may be serves as an effective strategy for managing Agnidushti conditions like Hypothyroidism. In the present case, a 31 year old female reported at the OPD of Swasthavritta, at ITRA, Jamnagar with clinical symptoms like unexplained weight gain, improper digestion, puffiness of face, generalized debility, hair fall. Her blood investigation showed elevated TSH level. She was treated with classical Ayurvedic medicines along with selected Yoga practices. The effectiveness of treatment was assessed by checking Thyroid profile and improvement in symptoms. At the end of intervention TSH level was reduced and decrease in symptoms was observed. By estimation of TSH level and decrease in the complaints suggest that Ayurvedic treatment along with selected Yoga practices may be beneficial in cases of Agnidushti w.s.r to Hypothyroidism
Exploring Twak Sharir and Marma Sthana with special reference to Dermatomes
No full textAyurveda, often referred to as the "Science of Life," serves as a profound reservoir of medical wisdom, offering invaluable insights and guidance for scholars and practitioners of traditional medicine. Twak Sharir (the study of the skin) is an elementary principle of Ayurveda, described in classical texts of Ayurveda like Sushrut Samhita and Charak Samhita. The skin, composed of multiple layers, plays a vital role in protection, sensation, and physiological balance. In Ayurveda, Twak (skin) is classified into multiple layers by various Acharyas, with each layer attributed to distinct physiological functions and associated pathological conditions.[1] Closely associated with Twak Sharir (the study of skin) is the concept of Marma Sthana—vital anatomical sites where multiple structures such as muscles, blood vessels, ligaments, bones, and joints converge. The skin, being the body’s largest sensory organ, plays a critical role in the perception and protection of these vital points. Sushrut Samhita defined 107 Marma points, which are essential points of energy (Prana) and neurological functions.[2] Any injury to these points can lead to pain, dysfunction, fatal consequences, or even death (due to Aghat of Sadhyo Prananhar Marma). These Marma locations align with modern neuroanatomical pathways and reflex zones, highlighting their physiological importance. The concept of Dermatomes, as understood in contemporary medicine, provides a neurological perspective on Twak and Marma. A dermatome is a specific area of skin primarily supplied by afferent (sensory) nerve fibers from a single spinal nerve. Each dermatome corresponds to a defined cutaneous region innervated by sensory fibers arising from a particular spinal nerve root, illustrating the segmental organization of the nervous system. Sensory input from these regions is conveyed through peripheral nerves to their corresponding spinal cord segments.[3] Interestingly, many Marma points in Ayurveda align with dermatome distributions, indicating a potential correlation between traditional Ayurvedic concepts and modern neuroanatomy. This study aims to explore the convergence of Twak Sharir (the Ayurvedic study of skin), Marma Sthana (vital anatomical points), and dermatomes, thereby integrating ancient Ayurvedic knowledge with contemporary anatomical science to enhance diagnostic precision and therapeutic strategies
Ritucharya: A Preventive and Promotive Ayurvedic Regimen for Lifestyle Disorders
No full textBackground: The burden of lifestyle disorders such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases is increasing rapidly across the globe. Conventional approaches have not been entirely successful in curbing their incidence. Ayurveda (the traditional Indian system of medicine) emphasizes prevention through seasonal adaptations called Ritucharya (seasonal regimen). Aim: To elaborate on the Ayurvedic concept of Ritucharya and its role in the prevention and management of lifestyle disorders through seasonal regulation of Ahara (diet regimen) and Vihara (lifestyle regimen). Materials and Methods: A qualitative review of classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya was carried out, alongside a search of modern literature and scientific articles relevant to seasonality, circadian biology, and lifestyle disorders. Results: Ritucharya outlines six specific seasonal regimens aligned with the Ritu (season) and corresponding Dosha (bio-energetic forces) fluctuations. Scientific evidence supports the effect of seasonal change on circadian rhythms, immunity, metabolism, and disease manifestation. Aligning with these natural cycles through Ritucharya may reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases. Conclusion: Ritucharya is a preventive and promotive strategy rooted in synchronizing human physiology with seasonal variations. It presents a sustainable and culturally relevant method to prevent lifestyle disorders and improve health outcomes
An Anatomico-Clinical Interpretation of Neela Manya Marma based on reported Cervical Manifestations
No full textBackground: Neela Manya Marma described in Ayurvedic Classic as a Sira Marma located in the cervical region. It is classified as Vaikalyakara Marma meaning its trauma leads to deformity or functional impairment rather than death. While traditionally discussed in Ayurvedic anatomy, there is growing need to highlight the clinical consequences of Marma through integrative studies involving modern clinical cases.
Aim: to interpret the Anatomical clinical Significance of Neela Manya Marma by analyzing reported clinical manifestation involving cervical region from modern published literature.
Materials and Methods: A literature based review was conducted using publicly available clinical case reports involving cervical region pathologies. Search term included cervical vascular conditions, neural involvement and anatomical structures corresponding to the location of Neela Manya Marma. Selected cases were reviewed for pattern of clinical presentation and structural involvement and anatomical structures corresponding to the location of Neela and Manya Marmasthana.
Results: Several cases demonstrated involvement of cervical structures such as internal and external carotid arteries, internal jugular vein, Vagus nerve, and cervical sympathetic chain. These finding align with anatomical location and clinical manifestation described for Neela Manya Marma.
Conclusion: Neela Manya Marma though categorized as Vaikalyakara has Deeper clinical implication when correlated with vascular and neural structures of the Neck. This study highlights the anatomical location and potential clinical consequences of Neela Manya Marma classified as Sira Marma aiding integrative understanding in contemporary clinical practice
Srotas and Microcirculation: An Ayurvedic Perspective on Tissue Perfusion and Fluid Dynamics
No full textIn Ayurveda, Srotas are vital channels that facilitate the transport of essential substances like Prana (life energy), Rasa (plasma), and Rakta (blood) throughout the body, playing a key role in maintaining physiological balance. These channels, detailed in Ayurvedic texts, have specific origins, pathways, and openings that support nutrition, waste elimination, and overall health. According to Acharya Charaka, there are 13 Srotas, while Acharya Sushruta describes 11 pairs, each with defined anatomical origins (Moola Sthana), shapes, and factors causing dysfunction, which can lead to conditions like metabolic, circulatory, or digestive disorders. Proper functioning of Srotas is critical for the activities of Tridosha, Dhatu, Oja, and Agni, and their imbalance is addressed through therapies like Panchakarma, herbal remedies, and lifestyle adjustments. Understanding Srotas is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment in Ayurveda, as their dysfunction is a root cause of many health issues. In modern physiology, the microcirculation complements the concept of Srotas, involving the smallest blood vessels - arterioles, capillaries, venules, and lymphatic ducts - that deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues while removing carbon dioxide. Lined by endothelial cells and supported by pericytes, these vessels regulate blood flow, tissue perfusion, and inflammation responses, influencing blood pressure and conditions like edema. Unlike macrocirculation, which focuses on blood transport to organs, microcirculation ensures tissue-level homeostasis. Advanced tools like hand-held vital microscopes (HVM) have highlighted its role in critical illnesses, such as shock or renal issues, by enabling real-time monitoring of microcirculatory parameters. Both Srotas and microcirculation underscore the intricate balance of bodily systems
Role of Sthanyadushti (vitiation of breast milk) in the causation of paediatric disorders and understanding Sthanya (breast milk) as a powerful tool in modifying paediatric ailments -An Ayurvedic perspective
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Abstract
Sthanyadushti (vitiation of breast milk) is a unique concept in Ayurveda, where the vitiation of Sthanya (breast milk) is said to cause a variety of diseases in breast fed children. The diseases which are seen exclusively in breast fed babies in which Sthanyadushti (vitiation of breast milk) is a Nidana (cause)are Phakka (Ksheeraja Phakka and Garbhaja Phakka), Paarigarbhika, Kumarasosha, Ksheeralasaka, Ahipoothana, Charmadala and Kukoonaka. These disorders can be broadly classified as Nutritional disorders and other disorders in which Sthanyadushti (vitiation of breast milk) is a cause. In this article the role of Sthanya (breast milk) in the pathogenesis of these diseases is discussed and identifying Sthanya as a tool in modifying those pathogeneses is pointed out. Sthanyasodhana (purification of breast milk) and Sthanyavardhana (methods to increase breast milk) is given utmost importance by acharyas to derive the maximum benefit out of breast milk which act as the tool to prevent or modify various disease presentations in the breast-fed babies
A Clinical Evaluation of Vyanga-Hara Lepa and Triphala Churna along with Microdermabrasion in Vyanga w.s.r. to Melasma
No full textBackground: Vyanga is classified under Kshudra Roga, characterized by painless, bluish-black patches on the face, commonly correlated with melasma in contemporary sciences. The increasing incidence of this condition among young adults, especially women, is largely attributed to factors such as psychological stress, hormonal disturbances, excessive sun exposure, and poor lifestyle habits. Despite being classified as a minor disease in classical texts, Vyanga significantly affects facial aesthetics, leading to psychosocial distress and reduced quality of life. Modern treatments often have recurrence or side effects, making Ayurvedic management a safer and more holistic alternative. In Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, Haritakyadi Varga, Jatiphala (nutmeg) is described as a potent Varnya (complexion enhancer) and Lekhana (scraping/de-pigmenting) herb, which makes it beneficial in the management of Vyanga (melasma). Triphala Churna, a classical Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation made from the dried fruits of Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki, has significant systemic actions that contribute to reducing melasma pigmentation when taken internally. Before applying Lepa, one should use a mechanical material, such as rock, stone, or Samudraphena, to rub or abrade the outermost layer of skin. The medications will penetrate quickly, and the Lepa will be absorbed faster if the dead skin on the surface is removed. According to Yuga-Anurupa Sandarbha, microdermabrasion with Al₂O₃ crystals has been utilized.
Intervention and duration: The study registered 45 patients for the clinical trial with Vyanga signs and symptoms (Mandala, Niruja, Shyava, Tanu), and those fulfilling the inclusion criteria were chosen for the study. Assessment was done on the 15th day, 30th, and 45th day.
Results: Using the proper statistical techniques, such as calculating the mean, standard deviation (SD), and standard error of the mean (SE), the study\u27s data were examined.
Conclusion: This clinical study of Vyanga-hara Lepa, Triphala Churna, along with microdermabrasion, showed significant results in Vyanga
Review on Guillain -Barré Syndrome and its Management - An Ayurvedic Perspective
No full textGuillia-Barre syndrome is a severe acute paralytic neuropathy with rapid progression usually occurring in post infections. Even with the medication it is accompanied with severe weakness, incomplete recovery and pain. Chronic stage of this syndrome causes autonomic dysfunction and life-threatening complications like respiratory failures etc. so this study is undertaken to reveal the Shodhana, Shamana therapies and other external Panchakrma procedures that are explained in classics for the Vata Vyadhi. Here the Guillian-Barre syndrome can be correlated to Sarvanga Vata Vyadhi and the treatment modalities that are explained in classics are reviewed here so that we can apply these treatment modalities in practically