Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine (JAHM)

Integrative Ayurvedic Approach in the Management of Avabahuka (Frozen shoulder) : A case report

2025-11-01T11:25:15+00:00

Background

Avabahuka is one among the Vatavyadhi which affects the Amsa sandhi (Shoulder joint) and causes Shoshana (wasting) of the local binding structures (tendons, ligaments and muscles). This leads to Sankocha (constriction) of local Sira and leads to symptoms like Bahuprasapanditahara (inability to lift the upper limb) and Shoola (pain). Due to its clinical manifestation, it can be correlated with Frozen shoulder (Adhesive capsulitis) where there will be loss of range of movements and pain in the shoulder.

Clinical findings

Here, a case report of 48 years old female patient with no comorbidities, complaining of severe pain in left shoulder region with stiffness and difficulty to raise the left hand since 1 month, managed with Marma chikitsa and Agnikarma followed by Nasya karma with Anutaila is being described.

Outcome

Within a week pain and stiffness was reduced with increased range of movements in her left upper limb leading to a better quality of life.

Conclusion

The treatment approach in the management of Avabahuka has shown significant results in the presenting complaints of the patient within a period of 1 week. Here, Marma chikitsa helped in enhancing the flow of Prana, thereby balancing Vata dosha and also acts in Srotorodha Nivarana. Agnikarma helped to remove the Avarodha from the Srotas caused by vitiated Vata and Kapha. Nasya helps in Vatanulomana and does Srotoshodhana along with Shamana Oushadhis.

Ayurvedic management of a chronic non-responsive case of Charmakhya Kushta (Lichen Simplex Chronicus): A Case Report

2025-10-24T10:58:25+00:00

Introduction: In Ayurveda Charmakhya is one among the type of Kshudra Kushta in which there will Twak vaivarnyata like Hasti Charmavat, Khara Sparsha, kandu and Raga are seen. This condition in contemporary science can be compared with Lichen simplex Chronicus based on its signs and symptoms. Charmakhya is mainly caused by vitiation of Tridosha mainly Vata and Kapha dosha along with this there will be vitiation of Rasa, Rakta and Mamsa dhatu. Ayurveda treatment mainly helps in treating the disease from root. Clinical findings: A 33-year-old female visited to Rajashekharaiah Ayurvedic hospital, Bangalore with OPD number 4326 on 16th April 2025, complaints of tvak vaivarnya, specially over bilateral Ankle joint. Accompanied by Kandu (itching), Raga (redness), and Khara Sparsha (rough texture). The symptoms developed gradually and were unresponsive to previous standard treatments. Intervention: Ayurvedic treatment included Deepana-Pachana (strengthening of the stomach), Snehapana (oleation), followed by Abhyanga (body massage), Parisheka (pouring), Virechana (purgation), Matra basti and Shamana Chikitsa (palliative treatment). Outcome: The patient attained Madhyama Shuddhi of Virechana; after Virechana and Shamana chikitsa noticeable improvement in symptoms and a decrease in disease severity. Itching decreased from severe to mild, lichenification markedly reduced, erythema, scaling and pigmentation showed gradual improvement’s, this indicates effective twacha gata dosha and kapha-vata dosha prashamana. Conclusion: Following 26 days of Shodhana and 60 days of Shamana chikitsa, the patient with chronic, non-responsive Charmakhya (Lichen Simplex Chronicus) shown a marked improvement. When Virechana, Matra Basti and Shamanoushadi were used together, the underlying dosha imbalance was successfully corrected without any side effects. These findings imply that Ayurvedic treatments could aid in the creation of more successful treatment plans for these kinds of long-term skin conditions.

Agada-based Ayurveda management of Dadru (Tinea corporis) – A case report

2025-11-10T07:13:23+00:00

Background: The majority of skin conditions in Ayurveda fall under "Kushta". Dadru is a sub-classification of the Kushta. Dadru (Tinea corporis), a skin condition, has become more prevalent in our society in recent years. It is a tridoshaja vyadhi, with a predominance of pitta and kapha doshas. It is a skin condition marked by papules with dark pigmentation and a tendency to spread. Clinical findings: A 55-year-old male presented to the skin OPD with a circular, dry, hyperpigmented active lesion over the chest region and associated with severe itching, symptoms had persisted for the past six months. The lesion had gradually increased in size despite topical cream use. Microscopic examination of skin scrapings revealed fungal elements, confirming the diagnosis of Dadru (Tinea corporis). The condition was managed with only external application of Bilwadi agada and Nalpamradi taila, both applied twice a day for 10 days, followed by only application of Nalpamradi taila twice a day for the next 10 days; thus, had two follow-ups on the 11th and 21st days. Possessing krimighna (antimicrobial), kandughna (anti-pruritic), and vishaghna (detoxifying), Twak-prasadana (skin-brightening) synergistically relieves symptoms of Dadru. By the 21st day, Kandu (itching) and Raga (erythema) reduced to grade 1 (mild), while Pidaka (papular eruptions) and Rookshata (dryness) and Utsanna Mandala (elevated lesions) completely resolved to grade 0. Outcome: Notable improvement in symptoms and the size of the lesion was reduced, restoring the skin to its normal texture and colour and on KOH mount for presence of fungal hyphae microscopic examination of the lesion showed Hyphae absent and no spores indicating clearing of the fungal elements. Conclusion: The external application of Bilwadi agada and Nalpamradi taila significantly reduced symptoms and achieved microbial clearance, thus managing Dadru effectively in 21 days.

Successful management of Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A rare clinical case report

2025-11-10T06:55:47+00:00

Background – Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare and severe type of psoriasis in which widespread redness and purulent discharge affect most of the body. This form can be life-threatening because it disrupts the skin’s protective barrier and interferes with temperature regulation. The skin often looks like it has severe burns—red, inflamed, and covered with large sheets of peeling scales. Patients may experience extreme itching, burning, or pain, along with dangerous shifts in body temperature. Complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, infections, hair fall, dandruff and even heart failure can occur.

Clinical findings – A female of 31 yrs old with generalized erythema, scaling, purulent discharge associated with fever, malaise, pedal oedema and hair & nail involvement with more than 90% affected body by the disease.

Intervention – Kaishora Guggulu, Gandhaka Rasayana, Panchatikta Guggulu Ghrita & Neelibringadi Taila for external application, supportive care and dietary modifications.

Outcome – There was a significant relief observed within 6 months, erythema, scaling, purulent discharge, itching and other systemic symptoms reduced completely. There was a complete remission in patients’ condition and improvement on follow up.

Conclusion – The Ayurvedic Chikitsa provided holistic management of the condition erythrodermic psoriasis, while also reducing the complications, and addressing all the systemic imbalance with resorting the quality of life within 6 months.

Keywords - Case report, Psoriasis, Kusta, Erythrodermic, Skin Scaling, Redness, purulent discharge

Evidence-Based case report on Ayurveda Management of Luta Visha (Spider Bite).

2025-11-09T05:40:06+00:00

Background: We report a case of Luta Visha (spider bite) over the forearm, aggravated in 48 hours. This case report documents day-wise typical luta visha (spider bite) presentation and effective management through Ayurveda principles. Clinical findings: The present case presented with a primary complaint of an insect bite, accompanied by painful, spreading vesicular lesions from the wrist to the elbow on her left forearm within 2 days, along with swelling and mild exertional dyspnoea. Intervention: Vilwadi Agada, Dashanga Agada, and Neelitulsyadi Kashaya were prescribed for the initial 7 days to cease the progression of lesions due to their Vishahara, kleda hara, and Rakta Shodhana qualities. Subsequently, Patolakaturohinyadi Kashaya was prescribed to eliminate residual Pitta and Kapha doshas that could lead to kandu and to aid in restoring agni. Outcome: Lesions and developing fever came down by day 7 of treatment, with improvement in appetite. At day 20, there was complete healing without any marks. Conclusion: Concepts of Upashaya-Anupashaya guided and demonstrated considerable clinical improvement in oral medications and topical application, showing the clinical significance of considering guna.

Ayurvedic Management of Acute Viral Hepatitis A: A case report

2025-12-12T08:44:41+00:00

Background: Viral hepatitis is a liver inflammation caused by a virus, with the most common types being A, B, C, D, and E. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). It is a systemic infection affecting the liver, causing impaired metabolism. Acute Hepatitis A is transmitted almost exclusively by the fecal-oral route. Large outbreaks as well as sporadic cases have been traced to contaminated food, water and milk. Clinical Findings: A 26-year female patient presented with the complaints of yellowish discoloration of urine, stool, eyes, and oral mucosa, along with vomiting, fever for 2 days, which is gradually started with anorexia for 8 days. Interventions: Vasaguluchyadi Kashaya, Patola Katu Rohinyadi Kashaya, Tab. Nirocil, Syp. Amlycure DS, Syp. Kalamegha DS, Avipattikara Churna and Anuloma DS were administered orally. Diet and lifestyle restrictions are advised. Outcome: After 30 days of treatment, marked changes in the subjective and objective parameters were found. Anorexia, abdominal pain, vomiting, giddiness, yellowish eye-oral cavity- urine, and Mala, headache, constipation, fever, weakness were present with moderate to severe intensity. Following treatment, all these symptoms were completely resolved. Biochemical parameters- Total bilirubin changed from 3.1 to 1.2, SGOT 381.5 to 34, SGPT 941.7 to 32, Alkaline phosphatase 190 to 90. Conclusion: Rational use of oral medications with a restricted diet in acute viral hepatitis A shown excellent results within a span of 30 days. This case highlights that the Ayurvedic line of treatment -Pitta Rechana (Cholagogue), Pitta Shamana (Pitta pacification), and Yakritshodhana (liver detox) helps in the effective management of acute viral hepatitis A.

Ayurvedic treatment of Kaksha (Hidradenitis Suppurativa) – A case report

2025-11-20T07:56:41+00:00

Background: Kaksha is a disease described by Acharya Sushruta in Kshudra Rogas (minor disorders) which occurs due to vitiation of Pitta Dosha (regulates body temperature and metabolic activities) in the Bahu (upper limb), Ansapradesha (shoulder), Parshwa (flank) and Kaksha (axilla/armpit). The Kaksha is correlated to chronic inflammatory skin disease known as Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), in which formation of subcutaneous nodules or sinus tracts occurs leading to hypertrophic scarring at disease site often causing discomfort to the patient affecting his/her quality of life. The primary areas of HS are the buttocks, genitals, perineal region and axilla due to the presence of apocrine glands. The prevalence rate of HS ranges from 0.00033% to 4.1% globally, but the treatment of HS remains challenging due to the increased recurrence rate and associated postoperative complications.

Clinical Findings: A 37-year-old female patient came with complaints of multiple small pustular swellings associated with severe pain and foul-smelling pus discharge from the right axilla. Local examination revealed four openings with a pus discharge and foul smell.

Intervention: The Ayurvedic diagnosis of Kaksha (ABB-12) was made based on signs and symptoms, whereas, as per modern literature, it was diagnosed as HS. Through an integrated approach based on principles of Ayurveda the case was treated by Shastra Karma (surgical procedures) and Shaman Chikitsa (palliative treatment).

Outcomes: The wound of the patient healed completely in 1 month and no recurrence was seen after 1 year.

Conclusions: In this case, the integrated approach based on principles of Ayurveda helped in complete resolution of the patient complaints and prevented recurrence which is one amongst the major complication seen after the treatment of HS. Hence it is observed that the traditional Ayurveda procedure of Kshara Karma (application of caustics) and Ksharasutra (medicated thread) ligation provided better results in the management of HS.

Integrated Ayurvedic Dietary and Yogic Protocol in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Case Series

2025-11-05T12:00:20+00:00

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), chronic metabolic disorder which is associated with insulin resistance and glucose underutilization. Conventional management approaches provide symptomatic relief albeit short-lived, failing to address core metabolic imbalance. Ayurveda identifies correction of Agni (digestive and metabolic) and dosha balance with regimen-based approach (Ahara-Vihara) individualized to person as a key strategy. This case-series provides details outcome of integrated dietary and yogic protocol in patients with poorly controlled T2DM. Methods: Five patients of uncontrolled T2DM were provided with personalized Ayurveda based dietary regimen along with therapeutic yogamodules for period of 24-weeks. Diet was Prakriti-based and customised to food availability and patients glycemic status to include low-glycemic foods, nutritional millets, culinary herbs, herbal drinks and therapeutic time restricted eating. Yoga-based therapeutic lifestyle involved practice of 60-minutes guided training modules involving asana-pranayamaand relaxation techniques. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), glycated-hemoglobin (HbA1C), Insulin levels, Homa-IR, weight, BMI (Body Mass Index) and waist circumference were recorded. Results: Improvement was reported across multiple clinical, biochemical and metabolic domains related to glycemic control which includes HbA1c, FBS, PPBS, Fasting Insulin, HOMA-IR, weight, BMI and waist circumference among 5-participants over a period of 24 weeks. 2 patients able to discontinue insulin, 1 patient achieved drug free diabetes control while 1 female patient with a history of repeated spontaneous abortions conceived and delivered healthy full-term baby. Patients also experienced weight reduction, improved digestion, appetite and sleep as well as improved physical and mental stability. Conclusion: Incorporating Ayurvedic dietary principles with practice of yoga showed marked improvement of glycemic status and insulin sensitivity in patients of T2DM. This holistic non-pharmacologic approach provides safe, effective, sustainable and individualized treatment strategy consistent with Ayurvedic principles of metabolic correction. Large scale clinical trials needed to validate findings of study.

Rajaswala Paricharya and Menstrual Practices: A Mixed-Methods Study on Cultural Beliefs and Reproductive Health Outcomes in Anand District of Gujarat, India

2025-10-04T05:55:05+00:00

Background: Menstruation, though being a physiological process, it is also influenced by social, cultural and personal practices. Rajaswala Paricharya is an Ayurvedic code of conduct outlining do’s and don’ts observed by women during menstruation. Despite growing interest, quantitative association between menstrual restrictions and reproductive health are underexplored. There is a gap of large-scale surveys integrating socio-demographic factors like education, rural-urban divides and socio-economic status. Exploration of such association through mixed-method approaches can triangulate the cultural beliefs with statistical evidence. Theoretically it has been revealed that non-adherence of restrictions are linked with oxidative stress and hormonal imbalances causing PCOS and infertility but lack validation through studies in diverse populations. Methods: Questionnaire after validation was used with mixed methodology approach for in depth interviews and focus group discussions with adult female in Anand District of Gujarat, India. Total 59 in depth interviews, 15 focus group discussions (8 to 10 participants in each), 460 female surveys. MS Excel was used for descriptive statistics and Pearson’s chi square test through SPSS software for further statistical analysis. Results: Socio cultural restrictions like prohibition from entering kitchen 62.1% and restricted diet significantly influenced reproductive health (p<0.05) for associations with chronic illness, menstrual disorders and illness in progeny. Qualitative themes highlighted the need for rest and seclusion and considered as health promoting. Conclusion: Using mixed methodology integrating qualitative and quantitative data for understanding the importance and impact of menstrual practices is the key highlight of the study. Association between certain menstrual practices and reproductive health outcomes were identified as statistically significant in quantitative data analysis. Amongst the qualitative narratives during discussions and interviews, the need for rest, seclusion and dietary restrictions were professed as health promoting behavior. To reassess the menstrual practices through scientific lens is emphasized by mixed method findings.

Social media and the popular discourse on Ayurveda: A qualitative exploratory study

2025-11-03T15:43:30+00:00

Introduction and Background: Ayurveda is the oldest surviving system of medicine that has withstood the vicissitudes of time and the onslaughts of rival medical systems. In its present stature, it is both adaptive and resilient. Its increasing predominance in the digital space and negotiations on social media channels has heightened its global presence. The advancement of ancient wisdom on a technology-based platform warrants systematic investigation. Objectives: To examine the nature, content and tenor of the videos on Ayurveda, posted on YouTube channels; to investigate into the practices and strategies deployed by content creators in the construction, dissemination and popularization of Ayurveda from a sociological perspective; to cognize the dynamics between Ayurveda and Biomedicine as reflected in the videos. Methods: The study employs cyber-ethnography as a method of data collection followed by discourse analysis to cognize Ayurveda’s proliferation on YouTube channels. For this purpose, the discourse on videos from selected channels was transcribed, thematically organised, interpreted, and analysed. The videos are publicly available, names of the selected channels and their content creators have been anonymized. Findings: Videos disseminating the basic tenets of Ayurveda and their significance in promoting health cover a wide range of themes that catch the attention of all age groups. The discourse on herbal, safe, and inexpensive remedies cuts across all videos. Elements of contradiction, condemnation, and contestation of the Biomedical model are evident in the discourse. The videos also demonstrate Ayurveda’s conformity to the nosology, vocabulary, jargon, practices of standardization, and pharmaceuticalization of the Biomedical model that have facilitated its global proliferation. Conclusion: The discourse on social media replicates the ongoing dynamics of contestation and co-optations between the two systems of medicine. Social media has served to strengthen Ayurveda’s presence on the global platform, creating a sizeable online community of viewers.

Standard operating procedure of Hanupichu- A Narrative mini review

2025-08-14T14:32:23+00:00

Background: Hanu Sandhi is considered as a major joint in head area. It is considered a Bahuchala sandhi and is more prone for Vataja disorders. For Hanusandhigata Roga the local therapies described are Hanu Basti and Hanu Pichu. Hanu Pichu is an ayurvedic treatment procedure where a sterile cotton pad dipped in medicated oil is placed on Hanu Sandhi. Despite its traditional relevance in managing conditions such as Hanu Graha, Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, myofascial pain, and local inflammatory states, standardized guidance on its method, indications, and procedural safety remains unclear. A structured narrative mini review was planned to consolidate the available classical knowledge and standardize the operating procedure guidelines. Objective: The goal is to combine classical references with clinical studies to outline a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the practice of Hanu Pichu, and highlight its therapeutic rationale, procedural steps, and mode of action. Methods: A narrative literature review of Bṛihattrayi and Laghutrayi were screened for descriptions related to Pichu and Hanu-roga and Secondary data were collected from peer-reviewed journals, clinical case reports, and institutional SOPs available were collected. Conclusion: Hanu basti and Hanu Pichu are the therapies effective for TMJ disorders, However, Hanu Pichu is a safe, cost-effective, and minimally invasive Ayurvedic intervention for TMJ-related disorders when performed according to standardized guidelines. Hence Hanu Pichu can be a choice of practical and preferable treatment option in routine clinical practice. This structured narrative review provides a consolidated SOP guidelines that highlight its therapeutic rationale, procedural steps, and mode of action.

Navigating the challenges of Body donation: Duties of donors, families, and medical institutions- A short review

2025-12-14T17:05:41+00:00

Background: Cadaveric dissection has been central to anatomical learning since the era of Acharya Sushruta, and Voluntary body donations (VBD) are precious gift to the mankind. Body Donation is defined as act of giving one’s body after death for medical research and education. Despite the importance of body donation for medical education and the advancement of medical science, cadaveric donation remains suboptimal. Dissection classes and research are being aborted in many medical courses because of lack of availability of cadavers. Under Anatomy Act of India, the unclaimed bodies have limitations and mostly they are not useful; and the only source of cadavers is the donated bodies but there is paucity of awareness regarding the gracious and ideal act of body donation. Objective: To explore the Ayurvedic, ethical, and educational dimensions of body donation, several active trusts involved in VBD and to analyse its challenges and responsibilities within medical education. Methods: A narrative literature review of Ayurvedic scriptures, ethical policies, and existing body donation frameworks was conducted. Observations were made under classical concepts, modern regulatory aspects, challenges, and Responsibilities. Results: The review highlighted that several active trusts in India — including Dadhichi Deh Dan Samiti, Laksha Trust, Dr. Ramannavar Charitable Trust, and the JSS Body Donation Association - serve as key contributors to donor registration and timely cadaver procurement for medical education. Major barriers to body-donation programmes include limited public awareness, cultural and religious influences, and legal compliance issues, while initiatives integrating community outreach and ethical transparency show promise in improving public acceptance. Conclusion: Body donation represents a unique bridge between ancient Ayurvedic thought and modern anatomical education. Active body-donation trusts significantly support cadaver availability for medical education, but wider participation requires strengthening awareness, institutional policies, and culturally sensitive counselling can significantly improve cadaver access in medical colleges.

Book Review on Sirassekadi Vidhi- A hand book on the principles and practice of Keraliya Panchakarma

2025-11-18T07:29:12+00:00

Shirassekadi vidhi is a popular book on Keraleeya panchakarma procedures written by Puthiyedath Raman Menon with Malayalam commentary Bhavaprabodhini. The recent edition is published in the year 2009 by Vaidyabhooshanam K. Raghavan Thirumalpad Foundation for Ayurvedic Studies, Raj Vihar, Chalakudy, Thrissur with English annotation by editor, Vaidya M. Prasad. This 80 page work serves as a handbook of Kerala’s speciality procedures like Sirasseka vidhi, Kaya seka vidhi, Pinda sweda vidhi, Anna lepana vidhi, Shirolepna vidhi, Kala vidhi and Snehapana vidhi with detailing on requirements, method of procedure, indications, contraindications and do’s and don’ts. In this review, authors have tried to explore the above procedural details in English to provide wider reachability.