Clinical evaluation of Panchagavya Ghrita for pediatric epilepsy
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: A clinical evaluation of panchagavya ghrita in bal apasmara (epilepsy in paediatric age group)
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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*Amit R. Jagtap
Associate Professor, Dept. of Kaumarbhritya, Shree Saptashringi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Maharashtra, India.
Amruta S. Dandekar
Associate Professor, Dept. of Swasthavritta, Dhanvantari Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Latur, Maharashtra, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: A clinical evaluation of panchagavya ghrita in bal apasmara (epilepsy in paediatric age group)
Year: 2015
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Epilepsy, particularly in the pediatric age group, is a significant neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures and is prevalent in various regions, with a notable incidence in India. The condition, known as Bal Apasmara in Ayurvedic terms, presents unique social stigmas and medical challenges. This study evaluates the efficacy of Panchagavya Ghrita, a traditional Ayurvedic preparation, in managing Bal Apasmara in children aged 4 to 16 years, comparing its effects against the commonly prescribed drug, Tab. Tegretol.
Efficacy of Panchagavya Ghrita
The study observed that Panchagavya Ghrita demonstrated significant improvements in managing symptoms associated with epilepsy. Specifically, patients treated with Panchagavya Ghrita exhibited a reduction in the frequency and duration of convulsions, as well as improvements in cognitive functions related to memory (Smritinasha) with statistical significance. In contrast, while Tegretol also provided reductions in the frequency and duration of convulsions, it did not show a significant impact on memory-related issues, underlining Panchagavya Ghrita's potential neuroprotective properties alongside its anticonvulsant effects.
Social Implications of Bal Apasmara
The social stigma associated with Bal Apasmara, viewed as a disability, limits opportunities for patients, including marital prospects and driving. This stigma affects not only the patients but also their families, influencing their quality of life and mental health. The study highlights the need for a holistic approach to treating epilepsy, which includes both medical intervention and societal awareness to lessen the psychological burden facing those afflicted by this condition.
Conclusion
Panchagavya Ghrita presents a promising alternative to modern pharmacological treatments, offering substantial benefits in the management of Bal Apasmara without significant side effects. Its ability to alleviate not only the physical symptoms of epilepsy but also cognitive impairments positions it as a valuable option in pediatric care. The findings encourage further research and a deeper understanding of traditional Ayurvedic treatments in modern medical contexts, particularly for chronic conditions like epilepsy.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the objective of the clinical evaluation study?
The objective was to conduct a clinical evaluation of Panchagavya Ghrita in treating Bal Apasmara, which refers to epilepsy in the paediatric age group, assessing its efficacy as compared to conventional medication.
What were the results of Panchagavya Ghrita treatment in the study?
Group I patients treated with Panchagavya Ghrita showed significant improvement in reducing the frequency and duration of seizures, and 46.66% were relieved of their symptoms, compared to the conventional Group II treatment with Tab. Tegretol.
How does Panchagavya Ghrita compare to conventional epilepsy medication?
Panchagavya Ghrita was effective in managing seizures with minimal side effects, promoting alertness and activity, whereas Tegretol was effective but presented side effects such as dizziness and nausea.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Clinical evaluation of Panchagavya Ghrita for pediatric epilepsy�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita refers to ghee or clarified butter used in Ayurvedic medicine. In this study, 'Panchagavya Ghrita' was administered to children to test its efficacy in treating epilepsy or Bal Apasmara. This medicine is known for its Rasayana (rejuvenating) and Vataghna (Vata pacifying) properties.
2) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder defined by recurrent seizures due to abnormal neuronal activity in the brain. This study focuses on pediatric epilepsy (Bal Apasmara) and evaluates the effects of Panchagavya Ghrita compared to the conventional treatment with Tab. Tegretol.
3) Apasmara:
Apasmara is the Ayurvedic term for epilepsy. The study compares the ancient concept of Apasmara with modern epilepsy, focusing on the pediatric age group. Signs of Apasmara include loss of consciousness, abnormal eye movements, and frothing.
4) Smritinasha (Smrtinasa, Smriti-nasha):
Smritinasha translates to amnesia or memory loss. In the study, it was one of the subjective parameters used to assess the efficacy of Panchagavya Ghrita and Tab. Tegretol on patients with epilepsy.
5) Drug:
The study involves the administration of two drugs: Panchagavya Ghrita and Tab. Tegretol. Panchagavya Ghrita is a classical Ayurvedic formulation, while Tab. Tegretol is a modern medication used to control seizures in epilepsy.
6) Pravesha (Pravesa):
[see source text or glossary: Pravesha]
7) India:
India is where the study was conducted. The country has a high incidence of epilepsy, particularly in its rural areas, and is home to nearly 10 million people suffering from the disorder. The Ayurvedic treatment studied offers a potential alternative for these patients.
8) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine from India, where treatments often include herbal formulations and dietary recommendations. The study evaluates the Ayurvedic medicine Panchagavya Ghrita for treating pediatric epilepsy (Bal Apasmara).
9) Disease:
The disease focused on in the study is epilepsy. It is characterized by recurrent seizures and has cognitive, neurological, psychological, and social consequences. The Ayurvedic text refers to it as Apasmara, which has similar descriptions.
10) Family:
The study noted that some patients had a family history of epilepsy or other associated conditions like tuberculosis. This information is essential for understanding the predisposition and broader impacts of the disorder on families.
11) Cow urine (Cow's urine):
Cow urine is one of the five ingredients in Panchagavya Ghrita. It is known for its Vataghna (Vata pacifying) properties and rich volatile free acids, which are potent antioxidants thought to help manage epilepsy.
12) Cow milk (Cow's milk):
Cow milk is another primary ingredient in Panchagavya Ghrita. It is considered a Rasayana in Ayurveda, which means it has rejuvenating and nourishing properties beneficial for treating epilepsy or Bal Apasmara.
13) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is a state in India where institutions like Shree Saptashringi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya and Dhanvantari Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, involved in the study, are located. The local context is relevant for the study's implementation and findings.
14) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenation therapy in Ayurveda, aimed at improving overall health and longevity. Panchagavya Ghrita, used in this study for pediatric epilepsy, is considered a Rasayana formulation due to its nourishing and revitalizing effects.
15) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are the fundamental bodily bio-elements in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The imbalance of Doshas is considered the root cause of diseases like Apasmara (epilepsy). Panchagavya Ghrita helps in balancing these Doshas.
16) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee, or clarified butter, is a crucial component of Panchagavya Ghrita. It is valued in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties, including Rasayana (rejuvenation) and Medhya (enhancing intellect and memory).
17) Milk:
Milk, particularly cow milk, is a key ingredient in Panchagavya Ghrita. It is considered nourishing and Rasayana in Ayurveda, contributing to the formulation's efficacy in treating pediatric epilepsy (Bal Apasmara).
18) Cow dung:
Cow dung is used in Panchagavya Ghrita, where it possesses Rakshoghna (protective) properties. Fresh cow dung juice is used in equal proportion along with other cow products in the preparation of the Ghrita.
19) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis was noted as a family history factor in a few patients within the study. This condition is excluded when selecting patients for the study to ensure the focus remains on idiopathic epilepsy cases.
20) Rakshoghna (Raksoghna, Rakshas-ghna):
Rakshoghna means possessing protective or antimicrobial attributes. In the study, cow dung, a component of Panchagavya Ghrita, is noted for its Rakshoghna properties, contributing to its therapeutic efficacy.
21) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata is an ancient Ayurvedic scholar who described 'Skanda-Apasmara', a condition compared to epilepsy in the study. His writings serve as a reference for understanding and defining Apasmara in the study.
22) Vataghna (Vata-ghna):
Vataghna means Vata-pacifying. Panchagavya Ghrita contains cow products such as cow curd and cow urine, which are known for their Vataghna properties, helping to manage disorders like Apasmara (epilepsy).
23) Medicine:
The term relates to the treatments used in the study, particularly Panchagavya Ghrita and Tab. Tegretol. Panchagavya Ghrita, an Ayurvedic medicine, was shown effective in managing pediatric epilepsy (Bal Apasmara).
24) Skanda (Skamda):
Skanda refers to 'Skanda-Apasmara', a type of epilepsy described by Acharya Vagbhata. The study mentions Skanda in the context of pediatric epilepsy symptoms and treatment with Panchagavya Ghrita.
25) Dadhi:
Dadhi refers to cow curd, one of the five main ingredients in Panchagavya Ghrita. It is known for its Vataghna (Vata-pacifying) properties, which are beneficial in treating epilepsy (Bal Apasmara).
26) Mutra:
Mutra means urine, specifically cow urine in the context of this study. It is one of the constituents of Panchagavya Ghrita and is known for its potent antioxidant properties beneficial in treating epilepsy.
27) Krimi (Krmi):
Krimi means worms or parasitic infestation. The study noted a significant number of patients with worm infestations, suggesting a possible connection between Krimi and the symptoms of Apasmara (epilepsy).
28) Blood:
Blood is mentioned in the description of symptoms of 'Skanda-Apasmara' by Acharya Vagbhata. The patient's body may emit a pyogenic, blood-like odor, distinguishing it from modern descriptions of epilepsy.
29) Curd:
Curd, specifically cow curd, is an essential component of Panchagavya Ghrita. It possesses Vataghna (Vata-pacifying) properties and contributes to the formulation used to treat pediatric epilepsy in the study.
30) Dhanvantari (Dhanvamtari):
Dhanvantari Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya is one of the institutions from Maharashtra, India, where the study's researchers are based. The affiliation lends credibility to the study on Panchagavya Ghrita for pediatric epilepsy.
31) Ghritapaka (Ghrtapaka, Ghrita-paka):
Ghrita-paka refers to the process of preparing medicated ghee. The study mentions this preparation method in making Panchagavya Ghrita, using equal proportions of cow products for therapeutic efficacy in epilepsy.
32) Unconscious:
Unconscious refers to the loss of consciousness, which is a common symptom of Apasmara (epilepsy). The study observed unconsciousness among pediatric patients and assessed the treatment efficacy of Panchagavya Ghrita.
33) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section of the provided text where the findings are interpreted. This part highlights observations, conclusions, and the effectiveness of Panchagavya Ghrita in managing pediatric epilepsy.
34) Samprapti:
Samprapti in Ayurveda refers to the pathogenesis or disease process. In this study, the Samprapti of Apasmara (epilepsy) involves the vitiation of Doshas and their impact on mental and physical health.
35) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vatadosha is one of the three fundamental bodily bio-elements in Ayurveda. In the context of this study, the imbalance of Vata is considered one of the key factors in the pathogenesis of Apasmara (epilepsy).
36) Inference:
[see source text or glossary: Inference]
37) Prabhava:
Prabhava means special effect or inherent potency. In this study, the Prabhava of cow dung as Rakshoghna (protective) and other cow products' specific properties contribute to the efficacy of Panchagavya Ghrita in treating epilepsy.
38) Marriage:
Marriage is relevant to the social stigma associated with epilepsy in India. The condition is mentioned as a ground for divorce under the Hindu Marriage Act, showcasing the significant social impact of epilepsy.
39) Samhita:
Samhita refers to classical Ayurvedic texts. The preparation and use of Panchagavya Ghrita in this study are based on references from Charak Samhita, an ancient authoritative compendium on Ayurveda.
40) Vikriti (Vikrti):
[see source text or glossary: Vikriti]
41) Anupana:
Anupana refers to a vehicle substance taken along with the main medicine to aid its action. In the study, patients were advised to take Panchagavya Ghrita with lukewarm water as Anupana.
42) Kshira (Ksira):
Kshira means milk, particularly cow milk used in Panchagavya Ghrita. It is valued in Ayurveda for its nourishing and Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties, which aid in the therapeutic efficacy of the formulation.
43) Medhya:
Medhya means intellect-enhancing or memory-improving. The Panchagavya Ghrita used in the study contains ingredients like cow ghee and milk, which are known for their Medhya properties, beneficial for treating epilepsy.
44) Nausea:
Nausea is mentioned as a side-effect of using Tab. Tegretol, a modern medication for epilepsy, in contrast to Panchagavya Ghrita, which showed no such side-effects during the study.
45) Nagapura (Naga-pura):
Nagpur is the location of Pakwasa Samnvaya Rugnalaya, the OPD from where patients for the study were selected. This geographical reference is critical for understanding the study's context.
46) Vidhi:
Vidhi means method or procedure. 'Ghrita Paka Vidhi' refers to the method of preparing medicated ghee used in the study to create Panchagavya Ghrita, following traditional Ayurvedic procedures.
47) Laghu:
[see source text or glossary: Laghu]
48) Graha:
Graha is cited in the study as the main cause of ailments according to Ayurvedic texts. Specific grahas are linked with conditions like Skanda-Apasmara, offering a perspective on epilepsy's etiology in Ayurveda.
49) Thane:
Thane is a location in Maharashtra, mentioned as the residence of Dr. Amit R. Jagtap, one of the principal researchers in the study, providing a geographical reference for the study's origins.
50) Ayus (Ayush):
[see source text or glossary: Ayush]
51) Shri (Sri, Sr):
[see source text or glossary: Shree]
52) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to juice or essence. In the study, Gau-Shakrud Rasa (fresh cow-dung juice) is one of the critical ingredients in Panchagavya Ghrita, contributing to its therapeutic properties for treating epilepsy.
53) Paka:
Paka means cooking or preparation. 'Ghrita Paka Vidhi' refers to the Ayurvedic method of preparing medicated ghee, which was crucial in making Panchagavya Ghrita for the study on pediatric epilepsy.
54) Food:
Food hygiene and quality are emphasized in the study, noting that poor economic status and unhygienic food can exacerbate conditions like Apasmara. Proper diet is fundamental in both prevention and treatment.
55) Diet:
Diet plays a significant role in Ayurveda, influencing the balance of Doshas and overall health. The study implies a need for a proper diet in managing Apasmara (epilepsy), complementary to treatments like Panchagavya Ghrita.
56) Fear:
[see source text or glossary: Fear]
57) Fire:
Fire, or Agni in Ayurveda, refers to the digestive and metabolic processes. Panchagavya Ghrita is noted for its Agnideepna (metabolic fire enhancing) properties, aiding in digestion and overall treatment efficacy for epilepsy.
58) Worm:
Worm, or Krimi, infestation was noted in a significant portion of the study's participants. This suggests that parasitic infections might have an impact on the prevalence and severity of epilepsy in the studied population.
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