Efficacy of Hingvastaka Churna Arka with Vilvadi Gutika in the Management of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70066/jahm.v14i2.2633Keywords:
Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Hingvastaka Churna Arka, Rajanyadi Churna Arka, Vilvadi Gutika, 6- Gastrointestinal Severity Index, Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale, Autism Treatment Evaluation ChecklistAbstract
Background: Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) presents in early childhood, affecting sensory processing, communication and cognition. Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs) are the most prevalent comorbidities in ASD. The symptoms of FGIDs include altered stool patterns, bloating, flatulence and frequent abdominal discomfort. These may affect the learning capacity, behavioral stability, and quality of life. Gut-microbial dysbiosis resulting from the gut- brain axis dysregulation plays a pivotal role in the development of FGIDs in ASD. Mandagni (poor digestion) is primarily the root cause of FGIDs. Additionally, Amavisha (metabolic toxin) can also impact neurocognitive functioning. While prebiotics and probiotics are currently in vogue, the effective management of FGIDs is yet to be established. Hingvastaka Churna, Rajanyadi Churna and Vilvadi Gutika have already been researched in Neurocognitive disorders; however, showed limitations of poor palatability. Oral sensory issues and gut irritation pose limitations to the use of preservatives in medicines for ASD. Arka (liquid distillate), owing to its extended shelf- life and absence of preservatives, can be advantageous in gastrointestinal disturbances. Materials and Methods: The current study is a prospective, open-label, randomized controlled, efficacy, superiority trial involving 60 ASD children with FGIDs. The trial group will receive Hingvastaka Churna Arka with Takra (buttermilk) before food and Vilvadi Gutika after food, thrice daily, for 30 days, with age- specific dosing. The control group will receive Rajanyadi Churna Arka and Vilvadi Gutika similarly. The Primary outcome measure is the reduction in symptoms of FGIDs based on the 6- Item Gastrointestinal Severity Index (6-GSI) and Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS). Secondary outcomes will be evaluated by changes in ASD- related symptoms using ATEC based on parental feedback. Conclusion: The findings of the study may potentially demonstrate the safety and efficacy of Hingvastaka Churna Arka and Vilvadi Gutika in managing FGIDs in children with ASD.
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