Pathya Implication in Aamavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis): A Review

Abstract

Introduction: Aamavata is a pathological condition resulting due to accumulation of aama which is the byproduct resulting due to weak metabolism. The clinical presentation resembles closely to rheumatoid arthritis(RA) in accordance with their similar clinical features like pain, swelling, stiffness, fever, redness, general debility , fatigue, etc. The global burden of the disease is about 0.24% and is increasing each year. The apathya are the risk factors for the disease and diet and nutrition have been shown to play a significant role as environmental triggers for RA. The pathya diet and regimen can be used to alter the pathological condition and manage with better efficacy. This article will focus on the pathya diet and regimen described in ayurveda about aamavata and their implications in the present scenario.

Materials and methods: The secondary source of data were used for the review. Various relevant text and research articles were reviewed and analysed for the study.

Result and conclusion: The pathya described in ayurveda have analgesic, immunomodulatory, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. These properties can be used to alter the pathological condition in RA. In ayurveda it is described that the action of any drug is different pertaining to their rasa-guna-karma and prabhava. So, the use of any dravya as pathya should be studied on these basis rather than only on the nutritional value. In addition these dravya can be used for external application for which further study need to be conducted. The use of pathya in aamavata can be cost effective and efficacious alternative in the management of the condition and play pivotal role in reducing the global public health burden of RA.