Ayurveda in Management of Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Case Report
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurveda in Management of Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Case Report
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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Shreya Joshi
MD Scholar, PG Department of Kayachikitsa, Patanjali Bhartiya Ayurvigyan Evam Anusandhan Sansthan, Haridwar, India
Abhishek Bhushan Sharma
Professor, PG Department of Kayachikitsa, Patanjali Bhartiya Ayurvigyan Evam Anusandhan Sansthan, Haridwar, India
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Ayurveda in Management of Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Case Report
Year: 2022 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v9i1.867
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a widespread global health concern, particularly affecting young children and pregnant women. It is primarily caused by inadequate iron absorption due to factors such as blood loss or mal-absorption. In Ayurveda, IDA is closely related to the clinical condition known as "Pandu roga," characterized by pallor and weakness due to vitiated doshas affecting tissue metabolism, leading to a deficiency in the blood and other dhatus. This case report examines a 21-year-old female patient diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia and treated with Ayurvedic formulations, alongside dietary iron supplements, to assess the effectiveness of Ayurvedic therapy in improving her condition.
Ayurvedic Approach to Anemia Treatment
The case study presents a detailed intervention wherein the patient received a combination of Ayurvedic formulations specifically tailored to address Pandu roga. The treatments included Amalki rasayan, Navayas lauh, Kasis bhasma, Swarnamakshik bhasma, Giloy sat, Vidangasav, and Abhralauh, administered over a month. Each formulation contains ingredients aimed at enhancing iron absorption and replenishing hemoglobin levels. The treatment banked on the principles of Ayurveda that emphasize the use of like-properties substances to restore balance and functionality to the affected systems, thus helping in breaking the pathogenesis of Pandu roga.
Clinical Outcomes
After one month of treatment, the patient exhibited significant improvement in symptoms, with hemoglobin levels rising from 8.6 g/dl to 12.7 g/dl, representing a notable enhancement in her overall health status. Symptoms such as pallor, swelling in the legs, hair fall, and palpitations greatly diminished, demonstrating the efficacy of the Ayurvedic formulations. Clinical assessments pre- and post-treatment marked an improvement from moderate to mild clinical features, reinforcing the positive outcome of this traditional approach to managing iron deficiency anemia.
Conclusion
The findings from this case report highlight the efficacy of Ayurvedic medicine in managing iron deficiency anemia, specifically through the treatment of Pandu roga. The results suggest that Ayurvedic formulations can significantly increase hemoglobin levels and alleviate associated symptoms without the side effects commonly experienced with conventional iron supplements. This case underscores the potential for integrating traditional Ayurvedic practices into contemporary healthcare strategies for addressing nutritional deficiencies such as IDA, offering a holistic approach to patient care.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is iron deficiency anemia and its common causes?
Iron deficiency anemia is the most prevalent form of anemia worldwide, primarily caused by blood loss, malabsorption, or increased physiological demands. It significantly affects young children and pregnant women, leading to health complications if not addressed.
How was the 21-year-old female patient treated with Ayurveda?
The patient was treated with Ayurvedic formulations like Amalki rasayan and Navayas lauh, combined with dietary supplements rich in iron. After one month, her hemoglobin increased from 8.6 g/dl to 12.7 g/dl, and significant improvement in symptoms was noted.
What are the dietary recommendations for managing iron deficiency anemia?
Recommended foods include carrot, beetroot, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, and jaggery. Including vitamin C-rich foods enhances iron absorption, while avoiding tannin-rich foods like tea can improve iron bioavailability needed to manage anemia effectively.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurveda in Management of Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Case Report�. 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) Pandu (Pamdu, Pamde):
Pandu refers to a condition marked by paleness, which is a predominant symptom in iron deficiency anemia. It is a crucial term in Ayurveda indicating pallor or whitish discoloration due to various causes, including nutritional deficiencies and metabolic changes.
2) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid in the body responsible for transporting nutrients, oxygen, and waste products. In the context of this text, iron plays a significant role in the synthesis of hemoglobin within blood, impacting overall health.
3) Panduroga (Pandu-roga, Pamduroga):
Panduroga is the Ayurvedic term for iron deficiency anemia, characterized by symptoms such as pallor, weakness, and fatigue. This case study highlights effective Ayurvedic formulations for managing Panduroga.
4) Roga:
Roga generally translates to 'disease' in Ayurveda. It denotes a state of imbalance in the body's doshas leading to various health issues, such as Pandu-roga, which relates to iron deficiency anemia.
5) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to calcined (ash) products used in Ayurvedic medicine. Examples include Kasis bhasma and Swarnamakshik bhasma, which are utilized for treating iron deficiency anemia by enriching the body with iron.
6) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine originating in India, offering holistic management of health conditions through natural therapies, dietary practices, and Ayurvedic formulations. This text explores Ayurveda's approach to treating iron deficiency anemia.
7) Medicine:
Medicine in this context refers to Ayurvedic formulations such as Amalki rasayan, Navayas lauh, and others, which were used effectively to manage symptoms of iron deficiency anemia and improve hemoglobin levels in the patient.
8) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the basic tissues constituting the body in Ayurvedic medicine. Conditions like Pandu-roga result from the vitiation of doshas that affect the metabolism within these dhatus, leading to symptoms like pallor and weakness.
9) Swelling:
Swelling or edema in bilateral feet is one of the symptoms observed in the case study. The Ayurvedic treatment led to a notable reduction in swelling, indicating an improvement in the patient's condition.
10) Disease:
Disease in Ayurveda is viewed as an imbalance in the body's doshas and dhatus. This case study refers to Pandu-roga, a disease resembling iron deficiency anemia, managed effectively through Ayurvedic formulations and dietary practices.
11) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma, referring to Abhishek Bhushan Sharma, is a Professor in the PG Department of Kayachikitsa at Patanjali Bhartiya Ayurvigyan Evam Anusandhan Sansthan, co-authoring the case report on managing iron deficiency anemia with Ayurvedic treatments.
12) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three primary doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for metabolism and transformation in the body. Pandu-roga is characterized as a Pittapradhan vyadhi, indicating a predominance of pitta-related disturbances.
13) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi refers to Shreya Joshi, an MD Scholar co-authoring the case report on Ayurvedic management of iron deficiency anemia, showcasing the effectiveness of traditional formulations and dietary adjustments.
14) Hair:
Hair fall is a common symptom associated with iron deficiency anemia. In this study, the patient experienced a significant reduction in hair fall from 50 strands/day to 10 strands/day after Ayurvedic treatment.
15) Drug:
Drug refers to the various Ayurvedic formulations used for treating iron deficiency anemia in this case study, such as Navayas lauh, Kasis bhasma, and Amalki rasayan, which demonstrated marked improvement in the patient's condition.
16) Patanjali:
Patanjali refers to Patanjali Ayurveda Hospital, where the case study on managing iron deficiency anemia with Ayurvedic medicine was conducted. The hospital is known for integrating traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern healthcare.
17) Panduta:
Panduta means pallor, which is a key symptom of iron deficiency anemia and Pandu-roga. The condition leads to pale skin due to deficiencies in hemoglobin or red blood cells.
18) Jaggery:
Jaggery, known as 'Gud' in Ayurveda, is a dietary supplement rich in iron. It was recommended as part of the patient's diet to support the increase of hemoglobin levels during the treatment of iron deficiency anemia.
19) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi denotes disease or disorder in Ayurvedic terminology. Pandu-roga is a type of Vyadhi marked by pallor and weakness due to iron deficiency anemia.
20) Lauha:
Lauha means iron in Sanskrit, often used in Ayurvedic formulations to treat conditions like iron deficiency anemia. Ayurvedic texts mention various forms of Lauha, such as bhasma and pills, utilized for their hematinic properties.
21) Edema (Oedema):
Edema, or swelling, in the feet was one of the major symptoms presented by the patient in this case study. The Ayurvedic treatment led to a complete resolution of edema, demonstrating the effectiveness of the prescribed formulations.
22) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for movement and physiological processes. Imbalances in Vata can propel conditions like pitta vitiation, contributing to the pathogenesis of diseases like Pandu-roga.
23) Kashi (Kasi):
Kasi likely refers to Kasis bhasma, an Ayurvedic iron supplement used in this case study for its effectiveness in treating iron deficiency anemia.
24) Food:
Food plays a crucial role in managing iron deficiency anemia. The patient's diet included iron-rich foods like green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, meat, and eggs, enhancing the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatments.
25) Worm:
Worm infestations, or Krimi, can contribute to iron deficiency by causing blood loss. Vidangasav, an Ayurvedic formulation, was used to treat and prevent worm infestations in the context of this case study.
26) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, known as Giloy in Ayurveda, contains iron and vitamins which facilitate blood formation and enhance hemoglobin levels. Giloy sat was included in the treatment plan for iron deficiency anemia.
27) Phyllanthus emblica:
Phyllanthus emblica, also known as Amla or Amalki, is a key ingredient in Ayurvedic formulations due to its rejuvenative, antioxidant, and iron-enhancing properties, vital for treating iron deficiency anemia.
28) Zingiber officinale:
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as Ginger or Shunthi, is used in Ayurvedic formulations for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. It is included in Abhralauh and other preparations for treating iron deficiency anemia.
29) Symplocos racemosa:
Symplocos racemosa, known as Lodhra in Ayurveda, is an herb used for its anti-inflammatory and therapeutic properties. It is one of the ingredients in the formulation Vidangasav used in this study.
30) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula, known as Haritaki in Ayurveda, is used for its health benefits, including acting as a digestive aid and detoxifier. It is an ingredient in multiple Ayurvedic formulations.
31) Cyperus rotundus:
Cyperus rotundus, called Mustaka in Ayurveda, is used for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. It is one of the many ingredients in Ayurvedic formulations for treating iron deficiency anemia.
32) Piper longum:
Piper longum, known as Pippali, is used in Ayurvedic medicine for its digestive and carminative properties. It is an ingredient in Navayas lauh, Abhralauh, and Vidangasav, which are part of the treatment plan for iron deficiency anemia.
33) Asparagus racemosus:
[see source text or glossary: Asparagus racemosus]
34) Embelia ribes:
Embelia ribes, called Vidanga in Ayurveda, is known for its anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) properties. Vidangasav, containing Vidanga, was administered to treat and prevent worm infestations in the patient.
35) Tridoshahara (Tridosahara, Tridosha-hara):
Tridoshahara refers to substances or treatments that balance all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurvedic medicine. An example is Amalki, which has tridoshahara properties beneficial in treating iron deficiency anemia.
36) Shaithilya (Saithilya):
Shaithilya refers to the looseness or laxity in body tissues (dhatus), a condition seen in iron deficiency anemia where metabolic disturbances lead to weak and pale tissues. Ayurvedic treatments aim to restore the strength and normalcy of these dhatus.
37) Discussion:
Discussion in a case report entails analyzing the observations, treatments, and outcomes of a medical case. In this context, the discussion focuses on the effective role of Ayurvedic formulations in treating iron deficiency anemia.
38) Salivation:
Salivation, the secretion of saliva in the mouth, may be affected in conditions of Pandu-roga as per Ayurvedic observations. However, the text does not elaborate on its relevance to iron deficiency anemia in this case study.
39) Depression:
Depression can be a complication of iron deficiency anemia, affecting the mental health of individuals. This text mentions depressive states as one of the complications related to the disease, highlighting the need for holistic treatment approaches.
40) Science (Scientific):
Scientific principles underpin modern healthcare but are also integral to Ayurveda's methodological approaches in diagnosing and treating conditions, like iron deficiency anemia through validated techniques and formulations.
41) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari, or Asparagus racemosus, has rejuvenative and immune-boosting properties in Ayurveda. It was included in the dietary supplements for the patient to aid in the holistic treatment of iron deficiency anemia.
42) Samprapti:
Samprapti refers to the pathogenesis or the development of a disease. In Ayurvedic terms, breaking the Samprapti of Pandu-roga involves addressing the underlying dosha imbalances and restoring normal tissue metabolism.
43) Substance:
Substance in Ayurvedic medicine often refers to the therapeutic components used in formulations. Effective substances like Lauha bhasma and herbal extracts were key in treating iron deficiency anemia in the featured case study.
44) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation indicates the aggravation or disturbance of body doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) leading to disease. In iron deficiency anemia, primarily pitta vitiation impacts tissue metabolism and overall health, a focus in Ayurvedic treatments.
45) Makshika (Maksika):
Makshika, likely referring to Swarnamakshika bhasma, is an Ayurvedic preparation made from iron pyrite, used for its therapeutic properties in treating conditions like Pandu-roga (iron deficiency anemia).
46) Haritaki:
Haritaki, Terminalia chebula, is a key Ayurvedic herb used in various formulations for its health-boosting effects. It supports digestion and detoxification, contributing to the overall improvement of iron deficiency anemia symptoms.
47) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana in Ayurveda refers to rejuvenative treatments that improve overall vitality and strengthen the body's tissues. Formulations like Amalki rasayan are used to treat iron deficiency anemia by promoting hemoglobin synthesis and boosting energy levels.
48) Mandagni (Manda-agni, Mamdagni):
Mandagni refers to sluggish or weak digestive fire, a significant concern in Ayurvedic medicine as it leads to poor absorption of nutrients, including iron, contributing to conditions like Pandu-roga (iron deficiency anemia).
49) Agantuja (Agantu-ja):
Agantuja refers to diseases caused by external factors like injuries or infections. In the context of Pandu-roga, external blood loss is categorized as an Agantuja cause for iron deficiency anemia.
50) Adhirata:
Adhirata, meaning irritability, is one of the clinical features assessed in iron deficiency anemia (Pandu-roga). This symptom was used to evaluate the patient's progress during and after the Ayurvedic treatment.
51) Pregnant:
Pregnant women are particularly at risk for iron deficiency anemia due to increased physiological demands. This text highlights pregnancy as a vulnerable period requiring effective iron supplementation and management.
52) Vidanga (Vidamga):
Vidanga, or Embelia ribes, is used for its anthelmintic properties in Ayurveda, effective for treating worm infestations that can cause iron deficiency anemia. Vidangasav, containing Vidanga, was part of the treatment plan.
53) Draksha (Draksa):
Draksha, commonly referred to as raisins, are known for their iron content and were included in the patient's diet to increase iron levels and support the treatment of iron deficiency anemia.
54) Pippali (Pippalin):
Pippali, or long pepper, is used in Ayurvedic formulations like Navayas lauh and Abhralauh for its benefits in improving digestion and nutrient absorption, which are crucial in treating iron deficiency anemia.
55) Shunthi (Sunthi, Sumthi, Shumthi):
Shunthi, or ginger, aids in digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is included in several Ayurvedic formulations that were part of treating iron deficiency anemia in this case report.
56) Pradhan:
Pradhan indicates predominance. In the context of Pandu-roga, it describes the primary role of Pitta dosha in the pathogenesis of the disease, emphasizing the focus on treatments that balance this dosha.
57) Shotha (Sotha):
Shotha refers to swelling or edema. It is one of the clinical symptoms of iron deficiency anemia (Pandu-roga), which showed noticeable improvement after Ayurvedic treatment in the case study.
58) Lodhra:
Lodhra, or Symplocos racemosa, is used for its anti-inflammatory properties. It was one of the ingredients in Vidangasav, an Ayurvedic formulation used in this case study to treat iron deficiency anemia.
59) Shrama (Srama):
Shrama, meaning fatigue, is a key symptom of Pandu-roga/iron deficiency anemia. Measuring the reduction in fatigue levels was part of the clinical assessment to gauge the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatment.
60) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas refers to the channels in the body responsible for the flow of nutrients and waste. Rasavaha and Raktavaha srotasas are the primary channels involved in the pathogenesis of Pandu-roga leading to symptoms such as pallor and edema.
61) Kopana:
Kopana, or irritability, was monitored as part of the clinical symptoms in a patient with iron deficiency anemia (Pandu-roga). The Ayurvedic treatment showed significant improvement in this symptom.
62) Animal:
Animal products are rich in well-absorbed heme iron, critical for preventing and managing iron deficiency anemia. However, the focus in this study was on plant-based sources and Ayurvedic treatments.
63) Aruci:
Aruchi, meaning loss of appetite, is one of the symptoms of Pandu-roga assessed in this case study. The improvement in appetite was observed after Ayurvedic treatment for iron deficiency anemia.
64) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three primary energies—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—that govern physiological functions in the body according to Ayurveda. Imbalances in these doshas are central to the pathogenesis of diseases like Pandu-roga.
65) Asava (Ashava):
Asava refers to fermented Ayurvedic formulations used for their therapeutic properties. Vidangasav is an example of such a formulation utilized in this case study to enhance iron absorption and manage iron deficiency anemia.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 82]
Other Science Concepts:
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