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Effect of Vasa Avaleha with Swarasa vs. Kwatha in Tamaka Shwasa

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Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: A Comparative Study of the effect of Vasa Avaleha prepared with Vasa Swarasa and Vasa Kwatha in Tamaka Shwasa
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.

Original source:

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Author:

Dr. Ankit Gupta, Dr. P.K. Prajapati, Dr. A.K. Choudhary


Ancient Science of Life:

(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)

Full text available for: A Comparative Study of the effect of Vasa Avaleha prepared with Vasa Swarasa and Vasa Kwatha in Tamaka Shwasa

Year: 2009

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Vasa (Adhatoda vasica) is a traditional herb widely recognized for its applications in treating respiratory conditions, particularly asthma (Shwasa). Although not included in the shwasahara mahakashaya by Acharya Charaka, it was referenced for its qualities in classical Ayurvedic texts, suggesting its efficacy in mitigating symptoms associated with breathlessness and respiratory illnesses. This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness of Vasa Avaleha formulations prepared using two methods: Swarasa (fresh juice) and Kwatha (decoction), assessing their impacts on patients with Tamaka Shwasa over a defined treatment period.

Comparative Efficacy of Vasa Avaleha Formulations

The core focus of the study was to compare the efficacy of Vasa Avaleha prepared from Swarasa and Kwatha on asthma patients. A total of 35 patients were divided into two groups, receiving one of the two formulations for 28 days. The results indicated significant improvements in the frequency, intensity, and duration of asthma symptoms such as dyspnoea and coughing. Notably, the Swarasa formulation showed greater overall effectiveness, with a higher percentage of patients experiencing marked improvement. The study also examined hematological parameters and noted a decrease in certain counts, although these changes were mostly statistically insignificant.

Conclusion

The study concludes that both formulations of Vasa Avaleha exhibit beneficial effects on treating Tamaka Shwasa, with Swarasa demonstrating superior efficacy in alleviating symptoms. Despite the findings, the researchers acknowledged limitations due to the small sample size and the lack of standardized outcome measures. Therefore, they recommend conducting further studies with larger populations to validate and expand upon these findings, enhancing the understanding of Vasa’s therapeutic role in respiratory disorders.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is Vasa and its significance in Ayurveda?

Vasa (Adhatoda vasica) is an important herb used in Ayurveda for treating respiratory diseases like Shwasa (asthma), Kasa (cough), and Raktapitta. Its classical formulations include Swarasa, Avaleha, and Ghrita, which help alleviate symptoms related to airway obstruction.

What was the objective of the study on Vasa Avaleha?

The study aimed to compare the efficacy of two Vasa Avaleha formulations, one prepared from Swarasa (fresh juice) and the other from Kwatha (decoction), in treating Tamaka Shwasa (bronchial asthma) based on subjective symptom relief and hematological parameters.

What were the outcomes of the Vasa Avaleha study?

Both formulations showed significant improvement in cardinal symptoms like dyspnoea, cough, and rhinitis. Vasa Avaleha prepared from Swarasa demonstrated a higher percentage of improvement compared to the Kwatha preparation, particularly in reducing the frequency, intensity, and duration of symptoms.

What limitations were noted in the Vasa Avaleha study?

The study faced limitations including a small sample size, lack of standardized outcome measures, and time constraints inherent in postgraduate research. Future studies should utilize a larger sample size for more accurate interpretations of the findings.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Effect of Vasa Avaleha with Swarasa vs. Kwatha in Tamaka Shwasa�. 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) Vasa (Vasha):
Vasa refers to the plant Adhatoda vasica, which is well-known in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. It is particularly recognized for treating respiratory diseases such as asthma and has been integrated into various Ayurvedic formulations. Its leaves, flowers, and extracts are often used in treatment preparations.

2) Avaleha:
Avaleha is a specific type of Ayurvedic formulation that combines herbal ingredients with a sweetening agent. It is typically in a paste form, advantageous for absorption and palatability. Avaleha preparations are aimed at enhancing the therapeutic effects of the ingredients, particularly for respiratory issues like Tamaka Shwasa.

3) Drug:
In the context of the text, a drug refers to a medicinal substance or preparation utilized in the treatment of diseases. In Ayurveda, herbs, minerals, and animal products are often classified as drugs, with the goal of balancing doshas and alleviating symptoms associated with various conditions, such as bronchial asthma.

4) Kasa (Kasha):
Kasa refers to cough, a significant symptom related to respiratory ailments. In Ayurvedic etiology, it is often categorized for treatment differentiation based on its characteristics, whether dry or productive. The presence and type of Kasa can provide insights into the underlying doshic imbalances affecting respiratory health.

5) Kalpana:
Kalpana signifies the methods or formulations in Ayurveda through which herbal medicines are prepared and administered. Each Kalpana has specific properties and indications, depending on its ingredients and traditional preparation process. This is essential for customizing treatments for patients based on their unique health conditions.

6) Tamaka:
Tamaka is a term used to describe a specific type of asthma in Ayurvedic texts. It illustrates certain classical signs and symptoms, primarily characterized by breathlessness, coughing, and wheezing. Proper identification of Tamaka is crucial for determining the appropriate Ayurvedic treatment and intervention strategies.

7) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses various substances, practices, and procedures aimed at diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. Within Ayurveda, it refers to the use of natural remedies, including plants and minerals, to bring about homeostasis in the body, particularly in addressing conditions like asthma and related respiratory disorders.

8) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three primary doshas in Ayurveda, representing the elements of earth and water. It is characterized by qualities such as stability, heaviness, and moisture and plays a critical role in maintaining physiological functions, including immunity and lubrication. Imbalance of Kapha can lead to respiratory conditions.

9) Science (Scientific):
Science, in this context, refers to the systematic study of the natural world and human health, including how medicinal plants and Ayurvedic therapies work to promote health. It underscores the importance of evidence-based research and understanding the efficacy of traditional healing methods in addressing modern health issues.

10) Sugar:
Sugar, particularly in its unrefined forms, such as jaggery or Sita sharkara, is often utilized in Ayurvedic formulations to enhance taste and facilitate the absorption of medicinal herbs. Its inclusion in treatments is based on balancing body energies and improving the palatability of formulations like Avaleha.

11) Bronchial asthma:
Bronchial asthma is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, resulting in difficulty breathing. It involves various symptomatic episodes like wheezing and cough, making it a focus for treatments in both modern and traditional systems of medicine, including Ayurveda with formulations like Vasa Avaleha.

12) Sakaphakasa (Sakapha-kasa):
Sakaphakasa indicates a specific type of cough associated with increased Kapha dosha, characterized by phlegm production. This term highlights the importance of doshic differentiation when approaching treatment in Ayurveda, ensuring that interventions effectively address underlying imbalances.

13) Bhaishajya (Bhaisajya):
Bhaisajya translates to 'medicine' in Ayurveda, emphasizing the role of medicinal plants, herbs, and treatments in promoting health and well-being. It is foundational for understanding how substances are utilized for therapeutic purposes within the rich tradition of Ayurvedic healing.

14) Irritation:
Irritation denotes discomfort or inflammation, particularly in the throat or airways as observed in respiratory conditions. In Ayurveda, addressing irritation is important to relieve symptoms and restore comfort, often using soothing formulations to mitigate the effects of doshic imbalances.

15) Samhita:
Samhita refers to a compilation or collection of traditional Ayurvedic texts containing various teachings, formulations, and methodologies. These texts serve as important references for practitioners, providing insights into Ayurvedic philosophy and treatment strategies based on ancient wisdom and practices.

16) Blood:
Blood is an essential bodily fluid involved in transportation and other physiological functions. In Ayurvedic practices, different blood components, such as white blood cells and hemoglobin, are analyzed to understand the immune response and overall health, particularly in the context of respiratory illnesses like asthma.

17) Adhatoda vasica:
Adhatoda vasica, commonly known as Vasa, is a potent herb traditionally used in the treatment of respiratory disorders. Its bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory properties have garnered attention in both ancient texts and modern studies, validating its role in managing conditions like asthma and bronchitis.

18) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that originated in India, emphasizing a holistic approach to health, including diet, lifestyle, and herbal remedies. It focuses on restoring balance among the body's three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—to promote overall well-being and prevent disease.

19) Snehana:
Snehana refers to the Ayurvedic practice of oleation or application of oils, which aids in detoxification and nourishment of bodily tissues. This treatment modality is often employed in respiratory therapies to relieve congestion and support lung health through the lubrication of airways.

20) Anupana:
Anupana indicates the vehicle or medium through which a medicine is administered. The choice of Anupana can enhance the therapeutic effects and absorption of the active components in Ayurvedic preparations. Common examples include warm water or herbal decoctions used to facilitate healing.

21) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita refers to clarified butter, commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations. It serves as a base for herbal preparations, enhancing absorption and providing nutritional benefits. Ghrita is particularly valued for its ability to balance Vata and Pitta doshas, making it beneficial in respiratory treatments.

22) Sthana:
Sthana means site or location in the context of disease manifestation. In Ayurveda, identifying the Sthana helps practitioners focus their treatment strategies on the specific organ systems affected, which is essential for effectively managing conditions like asthma or other respiratory ailments.

23) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna translates to 'hot' in Ayurveda, often describing qualities in substances that can stimulate digestion and circulation. It plays a crucial role in balancing doshas, particularly in conditions like asthma where increased warmth can help alleviate bronchoconstriction and phlegm accumulation.

24) Bhava:
Bhava signifies the state or mood related to health and well-being. In Ayurveda, it also refers to the properties or qualities of herbs and formulations, guiding practitioners in selecting appropriate treatments to align with patients' doshic imbalances and health conditions.

25) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa means taste or essence in Ayurveda, representing the fundamental qualities of substances that influence their effects on the body. Understanding Rasa is crucial for creating balanced formulations that target specific doshic imbalances and enhance the overall therapeutic benefits of herbal remedies.

26) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurvedic philosophy, associated with qualities such as dryness, lightness, and movement. It governs bodily functions related to communication and circulation. An imbalance in Vata can contribute to various health issues, including respiratory disorders like asthma.

27) Bhavaprakashanighantu (Bhavaprakasanighantu, Bhavaprakasha-nighantu):
Bhavaprakasha-nighantu is an Ayurvedic text categorizing medicinal plants and their properties. It serves as a key reference for understanding the therapeutic applications of various herbs along with providing insights into their preparation and usage, particularly for respiratory and other ailments.

28) Sitasharkara (Sitasarkara, Sita-sharkara):
Sita-sharkara refers to specific sweeteners used in Ayurvedic formulations, often made from sugar or jaggery. These agents not only improve the taste of medicines but also enhance their effectiveness by aiding in the absorption of active ingredients among patients, especially in respiratory treatments.

29) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasashastra is the alchemical aspect of Ayurveda that deals with the transformation of minerals and metals into medicinal compounds. It focuses on effective preparation methods and the therapeutic applications of these substances, essential for complex treatments, particularly for chronic conditions like respiratory diseases.

30) Parshvashula (Parsvasula, Parshva-shula):
Parshvashula refers to chest pain or discomfort, often associated with respiratory ailments such as asthma. Ayurvedic diagnoses consider this symptom when evaluating a patient's condition, guiding treatment choices aimed at alleviating pain and restoring normal respiratory function.

31) Mahakashaya (Mahakasaya, Maha-kashaya):
Mahakashaya refers to a group of powerful herbal medicines traditionally recognized for their multifaceted benefits. In Ayurveda, these formulations are considered effective in addressing complex conditions, including respiratory issues, by balancing doshas and enhancing overall wellness.

32) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha represents the bioenergetic force associated with structure, stability, and fluid balance in the body. In Ayurvedic medicine, an excess of Kapha can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems; thus, understanding its role is critical in developing effective treatment strategies.

33) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
Raktapitta refers to a condition characterized by bleeding disorders, often observed in Ayurveda as a Pitta imbalance. Understanding its relationship to respiratory conditions is essential, as such imbalances can exacerbate asthma symptoms and influence overall health.

34) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analytical evaluation of the findings from the study regarding Vasa Avaleha's efficacy in treating Tamaka Shwasa. It includes interpreting data, comparing results, and exploring implications for clinical practice and future research in Ayurvedic treatment methodologies.

35) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
Nighantu refers to Ayurvedic texts that systematically categorize medicinal plants and their properties. These references are vital for practitioners to source herbal remedies accurately, ensuring effective treatment strategies aligned with traditional knowledge and practices.

36) Prakasha (Prakasa):
Prakasha indicates illumination or clarification in the context of Ayurvedic knowledge. It reflects the importance of understanding herbal properties and formulations comprehensively to ensure the accurate application of this ancient medicine in addressing health conditions.

37) Sharkara (Sarkara):
Sharkara typically refers to sugar or sweetener in Ayurvedic formulations. Its use enhances the flavor and efficacy of medicines, facilitating patient compliance and making the therapeutic properties of various herbs more palatable and effective.

38) Fainting (Fainted):
Fainting denotes a temporary loss of consciousness, which can be triggered by severe respiratory distress, particularly in asthma cases. Recognizing signs of fainting is crucial for timely interventions and ensuring patient safety, especially during acute episodes of respiratory compromise.

39) Madhura:
Madhura translates to 'sweet' in Ayurveda and describes the taste profile of certain herbal formulations. The quality of being sweet can enhance the palatability of medicines, support digestive health, and provide a soothing effect, particularly important in the treatment of respiratory conditions.

40) Shastra (Sastra):
Shastra means scripture or text in Sanskrit, often referring to authoritative texts in Ayurveda that provide guidelines for the practice of medicine, ethics, and therapeutic strategies. In Ayurvedic medicine, Shastras form the backbone of knowledge transfer across generations.

41) Pippali (Pippalin):
Pippali, or long pepper, is an herb renowned in Ayurveda for its warming properties and benefits for respiratory health. It is often used in formulations to promote digestion and clarity in the airways, thereby providing relief from conditions like asthma.

42) Bharati:
Bharati refers to the scholarly authority of Ayurvedic medicine and is often associated with comprehensive texts that compile traditional knowledge. This emphasizes the significance of preserving and disseminating Ayurvedic practices across cultures and generations.

43) Snigdha:
Snigdha translates to 'unctuous' or 'oily' in Ayurveda, describing substances that provide nourishment and hydration. In therapeutic terms, Snigdha properties are utilized in formulations aimed at soothing and alleviating dryness in the respiratory tract, essential for managing conditions like asthma.

44) Nigraha:
Nigraha indicates restraint or control in Ayurveda and can refer to the therapeutic action of managing symptoms or doshas. Implementing Nigraha strategies is vital for achieving health goals, particularly in treating chronic conditions like asthma through balanced interventions.

45) Quality:
Quality refers to the inherent characteristics or properties of herbal substances and formulations in Ayurveda. Identifying the quality of a medicine is crucial for determining its therapeutic efficacy and suitability for treating specific doshic imbalances or health conditions.

46) Jaggery:
Jaggery is an unrefined sugar commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations for its health benefits and palatability. It serves as an effective sweetener in therapeutic preparations and is believed to provide additional nutritional value over refined sugars, enhancing overall health outcomes.

47) Reason:
Reason refers to the rationale behind selecting certain herbal formulations or treatment methods in Ayurveda. Understanding the reasons for choosing specific ingredients or approaches is essential for ensuring effective outcomes and aligning with the individual needs of patients.

48) Phlegm:
Phlegm denotes the thick mucus secreted in the respiratory tract, often increased in conditions like asthma. In Ayurveda, managing phlegm is critical for alleviating cough and promoting easier breathing, emphasizing the need for treatments that balance Kapha dosha and reduce excess mucus production.

49) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three biological energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurveda that govern physiological functions and health. Understanding dosha imbalances is integral to Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatment, providing a personalized approach to restoring balance and promoting well-being in patients.

50) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities of heat, metabolism, and transformation. It plays a role in digestion and the body's metabolic processes. An imbalance in Pitta can lead to inflammatory conditions, including respiratory issues like asthma.

51) Gupta:
Gupta often refers to a degree of confidentiality or hidden knowledge in Ayurveda. It underscores the importance of preserving therapeutic knowledge and practices passed down through generations while maintaining ethical practices in treatment and understanding.

52) Hikka:
Hikka refers to hiccups or an involuntary contraction of the diaphragm, often observed alongside respiratory conditions. In Ayurvedic practice, understanding Hikka can help in diagnosing respiratory ailments, as it reflects the underlying doshic imbalances affecting lung function.

53) Vega:
Vega indicates a sense of motion or movement within the Ayurvedic context. Relating to symptoms such as dyspnoea, the concept suggests evaluating the dynamics of bodily functions to understand and control health conditions effectively, particularly in respiratory disorders.

54) Sita (Shita):
Sita translates to 'cold' in Ayurvedic terminology, often used to describe the temperature quality of certain herbs and medicine preparations. This attribute is essential for designing treatments aimed at addressing conditions characterized by heat or inflammation, particularly in respiratory diseases.

55) Guna:
Guna refers to the attributes or qualities of substances and herbs studied in Ayurveda. Understanding Guna is fundamental in selecting appropriate medicines and routines, highlighting how specific qualities can influence the effectiveness of treatments for various health conditions.

56) Curd:
Curd, or yogurt, is a common food in Ayurveda known for its probiotic benefits. It is often mentioned as a dietary item to be avoided in respiratory conditions due to its potential to increase Kapha dosha, leading to excess mucus and congestion in the respiratory tract.

57) Diet:
Diet refers to the dietary practices and food choices emphasized in Ayurveda to maintain balance and promote health. Specific dietary recommendations aim at supporting overall well-being, managing dosha imbalances, and providing nourishment requisite for recovery from conditions like asthma.

58) Rice (Rce):
Rice is a staple food commonly consumed in numerous cultures, including in Ayurvedic diets. However, it is often advised to be avoided during respiratory illnesses, as it may aggravate Kapha dosha, leading to increased mucus production and exacerbation of breathing difficulties.

59) Post:
Post refers to the conclusion or follow-up stage in research or treatment processes. The term highlights the importance of evaluating results and outcomes after the intervention, crucial for understanding efficacy and making informed decisions for future clinical practices.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Effect of Vasa Avaleha with Swarasa vs. Kwatha in Tamaka Shwasa�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Kasa, Chikitsasthana, Bhaishajyaratnavali, Sakaphakasa, Adhatoda vasica, Bronchial asthma, Statistical analysis, Ethical committee, Kwatha, Swarasa, Follow-up observation, Shwasa, Eosinophil Count, Tamaka Shwasa, Vasavaleha, Diet and restriction, Avaleha Kalpana, Cardinal symptom, Peenasa, WHO report, Clinical symptom, Disability-adjusted life-year, SHWASAKASHTATA, Haematological parameter.

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