Impact of Ayurvedic treatment on rheumatoid arthritis improvement
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Effect of classical ayurvedic treatment in the functional improvement of patients with rheumatoid arthritis
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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Ashtavaidyan E.T. Neelakandhan Mooss
Director, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Foundation, Thaikkattussery, Ollur, Thrissur, Kerala
*Sudeesh kumar S
Dy. Medical Superintendent, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Foundation, Thaikkattussery, Ollur, Thrissur, Kerala
Navaneeth Krishnan N
Senior Physician, 5Research Director, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Foundation, Thaikkattussery, Ollur, Thrissur, Kerala
Smina P.B
Senior Research Fellow, 5Research Director, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Foundation, Thaikkattussery, Ollur, Thrissur, Kerala
PKS Nair
Research Director, Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Foundation, Thaikkattussery, Ollur, Thrissur, Kerala
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Effect of classical ayurvedic treatment in the functional improvement of patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Year: 2017
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune disorder characterized by pain, stiffness, and joint inflammation, affecting a significant portion of the adult population, particularly women. The condition can lead to major functional impairments and disabilities, especially in individuals aged 18 to 65. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of classical Ayurvedic treatments on the functional improvement of patients diagnosed with RA. Sixty patients aged between 20 and 60 participated in the study, undergoing a structured treatment regimen that included both inpatient and outpatient care. The results indicated significant improvements in various clinical parameters and highlighted the safety of the Ayurvedic treatment protocols used.
Significance of Ayurvedic Principles in Management
The principles of Ayurveda suggest that the pathogenesis of RA can be likened to a condition called Ama vata, which is characterized by the presence of "Ama" or toxic metabolic waste due to improper digestion. The study employed specific treatments aimed at eliminating Ama (Ama pachana) initially through dietary and herbal regimens, followed by interventions to balance the doshas—specifically targeting the involved Vata dosha and improving joint function. The treatment periods were carefully structured, with seven days dedicated to Ama elimination, followed by additional therapy focused on pain relief and inflammation reduction. The Ayurvedic remedies—such as Rasnasapthaka kwatha and Vyoshadi gulgulu—proved to be effective in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Effective Treatment Modalities
Another important aspect of the study was the exploration of external therapies, notably the use of various swedana (sudation) techniques, which are traditional Ayurvedic practices. Treatments such as Ruksha pottali sweda and Pathra pottali sweda were employed to provide symptomatic relief and promote recovery. These therapies work by enhancing local blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and relieving stiffness, which are crucial for restoring the functional capabilities of affected joints. The combination of internal medications and external applications demonstrated significant efficacy, as assessed by various scoring measures, indicating marked improvements in pain levels, joint swelling, and overall functionality.
Conclusion
The findings of this study highlight the potential of classical Ayurvedic treatments in effectively managing rheumatoid arthritis. The structured approach of combining internal medicinal therapies with external swedana techniques resulted in substantial improvements in functional status and quality of life for patients. Moreover, the absence of adverse effects associated with Ayurvedic treatment underscores its safety profile. These results point toward the need for further research to validate Ayurvedic modalities and potentially integrate them into conventional therapeutic practices for RA management. The study emphasizes the importance of considering holistic treatment options in addressing chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the study on rheumatoid arthritis?
The study evaluates the effect of classical Ayurvedic treatments on the functional improvement of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, assessing both objective and subjective parameters over a period of 57 days.
What treatments were administered during the study for patients?
Patients underwent an initial 7-day 'Amapachana' treatment, followed by 14 days of 'Samana' medicines and external therapies, including 'Ruksha pottali sweda' and 'Pathra pottali sweda' to alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
What were the results regarding safety and effectiveness of the treatment?
The study found significant improvements in pain, stiffness, and overall functionality while confirming the safety of the treatments, as no adverse changes occurred in liver or kidney function during the treatment period.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Impact of Ayurvedic treatment on rheumatoid arthritis improvement�. 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) Disease:
A disease is a pathological condition affecting the body. In the context provided, Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the specific disease being discussed. RA is an autoimmune disorder attacking the joints and causing pain and disability.
2) Rheumatoid arthritis:
Rheumatoid arthritis, often abbreviated as RA, is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammatory synovitis. This leads to pain, joint erosions, and varying degrees of disability. It predominantly affects the synovial joints in a symmetrical pattern.
3) Pain:
Pain is a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, manifesting as discomfort in the joints that can limit functional capacity. In Ayurvedic treatment, pain is addressed through various internal medicines and external procedures.
4) Medicine:
Medicine in the context of the study refers to the classical Ayurvedic treatments used to manage RA. Examples include 'Amrithotharam kwatha', 'Vyoshadi gulgulu', and specific oils like 'Kottamchukkadi taila'.
5) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda responsible for movement and activity in the body. It tends to get vitiated in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, leading to symptoms such as pain and stiffness.
6) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha in Ayurveda refers to bio-energies governing physical and mental processes. The study extensively discusses Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, which contribute to disease pathogenesis when imbalanced.
7) Rakta:
Rakta, meaning blood, is significant in Ayurvedic pathology. In rheumatoid arthritis, vitiation of Rakta from Ama (toxins) can cause severe inflammation, contributing to the disease’s symptoms.
8) Stiffness:
Stiffness is a prominent symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, often noted as 'morning stiffness'. It is relieved through Ayurvedic therapies like 'Pathrapottali sweda' which enhances mobility and reduces symptoms.
9) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine from India. The study revolves around classical Ayurvedic treatments for RA, such as Panchakarma and medicinal formulations like 'Rasnasapthaka kwatha'.
10) Swelling:
Swelling, particularly in joints, is a common manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis. Ayurvedic treatments like 'Rasnasapthaka kwatha' aim to reduce this inflammation and improve joint function.
11) India:
India is the country where this study on Ayurvedic treatment for rheumatoid arthritis was conducted. Specifically, research took place in Kerala, a state known for its classical Ayurvedic tradition.
12) Sara (Shara):
Sara refers to the essence or quality of body tissues. In the study, patients are analyzed for different Sara such as 'Rasa' (plasma), 'Raktha' (blood), 'Mamsa' (muscle), etc., indicating tissue health.
13) Madhyama:
Madhyama translates to medium or moderate. It’s used in the context to describe the middle-level strength in physiological characteristics such as 'Ahara shakti' (digestive power) and 'Vyayama shakti' (physical strength).
14) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha means dry in Ayurveda. Ruksha therapies such as 'Ruksha pottali sweda' (dry fomentation) are used in the initial stages of RA treatment for 'Amapachana' (digesting toxins).
15) Taila:
Taila means oil in Ayurvedic medicine. Various medicated oils like 'Kottamchukkadi taila' are used for massaging to alleviate symptoms of RA, such as reducing pain and inflammation.
16) Avara:
Avara signifies the lowest or least degree. It is used in the study to classify the less optimal levels in various physical and mental strengths of patients, such as 'samhanana' (body composition) and 'satmya' (habituation).
17) Food:
Food is emphasized in Ayurveda as it impacts 'Agni' (digestive fire) and overall health. In RA, specific dietary practices can trigger or alleviate symptoms, and thus have a vital role in management.
18) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a key pathological feature of rheumatoid arthritis. Ayurvedic treatments, including various herbal formulations and therapies, aim to reduce inflammation and alleviate associated symptoms.
19) Pravara:
Pravara indicates the highest or optimal level. In the study, it describes the best quality of certain physiological conditions in patients, e.g., 'pravara samhanana' (excellent body composition).
20) Pitta:
Pitta, one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, governs metabolism and transformation. Disturbances in Pitta can lead to inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, necessitating specific therapeutic interventions.
21) Fever:
Fever is a symptom associated with the inflammatory process in rheumatoid arthritis. In Ayurveda, it is addressed through treatments that reduce 'jwara' (fever), often associated with 'Ama' (toxins).
22) Blood:
Blood, referred to as 'Rakta' in Ayurveda, plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of RA. Vitiated Rakta can manifest as inflammation and joint pain, which are key symptoms of the disease.
23) Vatarakta (Vata-rakta):
Vatarakta is an Ayurvedic term that encompasses a range of disorders including RA. It involves the vitiation of Vata and Rakta, leading to symptoms such as pain and swelling in joints.
24) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasadhatu is the first tissue produced after digestion, equivalent to plasma. In RA, improper 'Rasadhatu' due to weak digestion can lead to further complications affecting 'Rakta' and causing inflammation.
25) Pottali:
In Ayurveda, Pottali refers to a bolus or pouch used in therapeutic procedures like 'Pathrapottali sweda', where medicated leaves are bundled and applied to reduce inflammation and pain in RA.
26) Kaphaja:
'Kaphaja' refers to conditions or constitutions dominated by Kapha dosha. In the study, this classification helps to understand patient susceptibility and tailor treatment plans accordingly.
27) Amavata (Ama-vata):
[see source text or glossary: Ama-vata]
28) Shyamaka (Syamaka):
Syamaka is a term referring to a kind of grain used in Ayurveda. In the study, Syamaka churna is used in Ruksha pottali sweda as part of the treatment regimen for RA.
29) Kerala:
Kerala is an Indian state famous for its traditional Ayurvedic practice. The study was conducted in the Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Foundation in Kerala, focusing on Ayurvedic treatments for RA.
30) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the seven bodily tissues in Ayurveda, such as Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), and Mamsa (muscle). Proper management of these is crucial in treating systemic diseases like RA.
31) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush is an acronym for Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. The study acknowledges financial support from the Ministry of Ayush, which promotes these traditional medicine systems in India.
32) Drug:
[see source text or glossary: Drug]
33) Raktadhatu (Rakta-dhatu):
Rakta-dhatu refers to the blood tissue in Ayurveda. It plays a significant role in the pathogenesis and symptoms of RA. Proper management of Rakta-dhatu is essential in the treatment of the disease.
34) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
Vata-pitta denotes a combination of Vata and Pitta doshas. In the study, many patients were found to have this Prakruti, influencing the choice of Ayurvedic treatment for RA.
35) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha is one of the three doshas responsible for movement and activity. When vitiated, it can cause various symptoms of RA like pain, stiffness, and inflammation, requiring targeted treatment.
36) Samhanana:
Samhanana refers to body build or composition in Ayurveda. It is classified into Pravara (excellent), Madhyama (moderate), and Avara (poor). In the study, this helps evaluate the physical condition of RA patients.
37) Vyoshadi (Vyosadi):
Vyoshadi is part of several formulations in Ayurveda, such as Vyoshadi gulgulu, used for 'Ama pachana' (digesting toxins) and 'kapha medohara' (reducing fat and kapha) properties in RA management.
38) Guggulu:
Guggulu is an effective anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic substance used in Ayurveda. It is a key component in formulations like Vyoshadi gulgulu, prescribed for RA in the study.
39) Shakti (Sakti):
Shakti refers to power or capability. In the study, parameters such as 'Ahara-shakti' (digestive power) and 'Vyayama-shakti' (physical strength) are assessed to understand the patient's condition and tailor treatment.
40) Dushya (Dusya):
[see source text or glossary: Dushya]
41) Satmya:
Satmya refers to habituation or suitability of diet and lifestyle in Ayurveda. The study classifies patients into Pravara (excellent), Madhyama (moderate), and Avara (poor) Satmya to guide individualized treatments.
42) Bhrama:
Bhrama means dizziness, which is one of the symptoms listed in the study for assessing the presence of 'Ama' in RA patients. The study tracks changes in such symptoms as a measure of treatment efficacy.
43) Chardi:
Chardi means vomiting in Ayurveda. It is one of the symptoms associated with 'Ama' or toxin accumulation in RA. The study assesses symptoms like Chardi to evaluate treatment response.
44) Murcha:
Murcha translates to fainting or unconsciousness in Ayurveda. It's a symptom checked in RA patients to assess the severity and presence of 'Ama' and to evaluate treatment effect over time.
45) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas responsible for structure and lubrication. Vitiation of Kapha, along with Vata, is involved in the early stages of RA, manifesting as 'Amavata', which needs detoxifying treatments.
46) Asthi (Ashthi):
Asthi refers to bones. In the context of RA, degeneration of Asthi (bones) and joints due to the disease process is addressed through various Ayurvedic treatments aimed at halting progression and alleviating symptoms.
47) Rasna (Rashna, Rasona, Rasa-una):
'Rasna' is a medicinal herb used in formulations like Rasnasapthaka kwatha for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is a critical part of the study's treatment for RA.
48) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa refers to the muscle tissue in Ayurveda. Assessments in the study include 'Mamsa-sara' (quality of muscle tissue) as part of understanding the overall health status of RA patients.
49) Ahara:
Ahara means food or diet in Ayurveda. The study emphasizes the role of dietary habits in the onset and management of RA, stressing the importance of tailored dietary recommendations for improving patient outcomes.
50) Tivra:
Tivra translates to severe or intense. The study uses this term to describe the intensity of symptoms like 'Tivra ruja' (intense pain) in RA patients, providing a measure for evaluating treatment effectiveness.
51) Kumar:
[see source text or glossary: Kumar]
52) Ulcer:
Ulcer is a side effect of NSAIDs commonly used in allopathic RA treatment. Ayurvedic therapies aim to manage RA without causing such gastrointestinal complications, making them a safer alternative.
53) Ruja:
Ruja means pain. In RA, 'Sandi Ruja' (joint pain) is a primary symptom. The study evaluates reductions in 'Ruja' through various Ayurvedic treatments to determine their efficacy.
54) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to the plasma or the essence of food after digestion, essential for nutrition in Ayurveda. The quality of Rasa affects overall health and certain symptoms of RA indicate imbalances in Rasa.
55) Daha:
Daha means burning sensation. It is one of the symptoms assessed in RA patients, which often indicates elevated Pitta dosha and 'Ama' in the circulatory system, affecting the joints and tissues.
56) New Delhi:
New Delhi is relevant as the location of the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), where the study's protocol and CRF were approved before conducting the clinical trial.
57) Vyayamashakti (Vyayamasakti, Vyayama-shakti):
Vyayama-shakti refers to physical strength or capacity for exercise. The study assesses this to understand the impact of RA on patients' physical capabilities and the improvements post-treatment.
58) Madhavanidana (Madhava-nidana):
Madhavanidana is a classical Ayurveda text that describes various diseases, including Amavata (RA-like condition). It provides insights into diagnosis, pathogenesis, and treatment which the study leverages.
59) Aharashakti (Aharasakti, Ahara-shakti):
Ahara-shakti is the digestive power of an individual. It’s categorized into Pravara (high), Madhyama (moderate), and Avara (low) in the study, affecting how well patients can process food and medicine.
60) Tuberculosis:
[see source text or glossary: Tuberculosis]
61) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pitta-dosha is one of the three doshas involved in digestion and metabolism. Its imbalances can lead to inflammatory conditions like RA. Treatment often involves calming the Pitta to reduce symptoms.
62) Ashvagandha (Asvagandha, Ashwagandha, Ashvagamdha, Ashva-gandha):
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb known for its anti-inflammatory and rejuvenating properties. It has been studied for efficacy and safety in managing RA, showing significant positive outcomes.
63) Vardhamana:
[see source text or glossary: Vardhamana]
64) Agnimandya (Agni-mandya, Agnimamdya):
Agnimandya means weakened digestive fire in Ayurveda, which leads to the formation of Ama (toxins). It's a fundamental aspect in the pathogenesis of RA and the initial focus of Ayurvedic treatment.
65) Bhaishajya (Bhaisajya):
Bhaishajya refers to medicinal treatment in Ayurveda. Texts like 'Bhaishajya Ratnavali' describe numerous treatments, including those for RA, detailing formulations used in the study like 'Vyoshadi gulgulu'.
66) Asthisara (Asthi-sara):
Asthi-sara indicates the quality of bone tissue. In RA patients, assessing Asthi-sara is crucial as the disease significantly impacts bone health and can lead to deformities without proper management.
67) Utsahahani:
Utsahahani means loss of enthusiasm or energy. It's a symptom observed in RA patients and is used to gauge the effectiveness of treatments in restoring vitality and overall well-being.
68) Kaphapitta (Kapha-pitta):
Kaphapitta is a dual dosha type where both Kapha and Pitta are dominant. In the study, many patients fell under this category, influencing their susceptibility to RA and the customized treatment strategies used.
69) Discussion:
Discussion in the study refers to the systematic evaluation and interpretation of the results obtained from the clinical trial of Ayurvedic treatments for RA, providing insights into efficacy and safety.
70) Science (Scientific):
Scientific indicates the methodological approach used in the study, including clinical trials, statistical analysis, and adherence to guidelines from institutions like CCRAS, ensuring a robust investigation into Ayurvedic treatments for RA.
71) Angamarda (Anga-marda, Amgamarda):
Angamarda means body ache in Ayurveda, commonly seen in RA patients. The treatment's effectiveness is partially evaluated by the reduction in symptoms like Angamarda through Ayurvedic therapies.
72) Amadosha (Amadosa, Ama-dosha):
Ama-dosha is the pathological state caused by improper digestion leading to toxin accumulation. It plays a crucial role in RA pathogenesis and is targeted initially through 'Amapachana' (digestive and detoxifying) treatments.
73) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana means symptoms. The study identifies various Lakshana (symptoms) of RA such as pain, swelling, and stiffness, to track patient conditions and evaluate treatment effectiveness.
74) Parinama:
[see source text or glossary: Parinama]
75) Vairasya:
Vairasya refers to the loss of taste sensation, an indicator of weakened Agni (digestive fire) and Ama presence. The study evaluates changes in Vairasya to assess the success of 'Amapachana' therapies.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 125]
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