The healer Journal

Disinfection in Ayurveda

Dr Renu Khayamali — 2024-02-02

Ayurveda gives prime importance to prevention; various modalities are described for the prevention and promotion of health as well as treatment of disease. During COVID-19 pandemic various modalities were focused for prevention and containment of the infection and during the dengue epidemic break- august-september different modalities to prevent and treat disease were devised and most of the modalities prescribed are described in Ayurveda more than 5000 years back. The modalities described are helpful in prevention and containment of the disease spread. Disinfection concept is one among the concept described clearly with its significance in the promotion of health. Disinfection is thermal or chemical destruction of pathogens and other types of microorganism.1Modalities to disinfect air, water, soil and infection are described meticulously which are relevant in the present scenario.

Effect of Janubasti in Janusandhigat Vata (Osteoarthritis of Knee) with Dashmool Taila- Case Series

Dr Nirmal Bhusal — 2024-02-02

Introduction: Osteoarthritis of knee (OA knee) is a kind of degenerative disease. Its management becomes so challenging through modern medicine as the medicines are effective only for a short duration of time with adverse effects on body. The 2017 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) report ranked hip and knee OA as the 11th highest contributor to global disability and the 23rd highest cause of disability adjusted life years (DALYs). So it’s better to find the management through holistic approach like Ayurveda science. In Ayurveda OA knee can be correlated with janu sandhigata vata which is one, among the eighty nanatmaja vata vyadhis. When the vitiated vata lodges in sandhi i.e. joint, it is termed classically as sandhigata vata. Janusandhigata vata is a condition where vata dosha, afflicted due to nidan sewana, localizes through kha baigunya in janu sandhi i.e. knee joints, manifesting pain, swelling and restriction of movement locally. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of dashmool taila in the management of OA knee. Materials and Methods: 10 cases of janusandhigata vata (OA knee) who approached to department of panchakarma, Ayurveda Campus and Teaching Hospital, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal were selected on random basis, irrespective of duration or grading of disease for janu basti. Range of movement i.e. angle of flexion and extension of knee by goniometer, VAS pain score, and subjective study of shola (pain) upon walking, sandhi graha (restriction in movement), shotha (swelling), crepitus (atopa) and tenderness (vatapurna drutisparsha) were recorded. Results: Before intervention mean VAS score was 7.2, mean AOF for male was115.5, for female was 98.8, Mean AOE for male was 5.8 and for female was 5.4 and after intervention mean VAS score was 3, mean AOF for male was 130.4, for female 122.8, mean AOE for male was 2.2 and for female 4.4 respectively. t test value of t is greater than tabulated value of t at 5degree level of significance and 1degree freedom for AOF and AOE. Significant improvement in above parameters were observed. Conclusion: The current case series demonstrated the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatment for janusandhigata vata (OA knee) which includes janu basti with dashmool taila followed by snehana and swedana.

Effectiveness of Chitrakadi Vati in Grahani: A Case series

Dr Nikee Maharjan — 2024-02-02

Grahani Roga is a disease of Annavaha Srotas caused due to the production of Ama and Mandagni leading to improper digestion of ingested food, which moves either in Urdhwa or Adho-Marga. When it goes into Adho-marga, then it leads to Grahani Gada. So Agni plays an important role for producing this disease.The impairment of Agni (Mainly Mandagni) is responsible for the creation of Grahani Roga. Therefore, its main line of treatment is to treat agni i.e. give agni deepan medicine. Chitrakadi vati is one of the best agni deepan medicine. For these three patients diagnosed with grahani were selected and chitrakadi vati was given for a month the score of classical sign and symptom of grahani was assessed before and after treatment. There was significant improvement in assessed score

Ayurveda-Centered Recommended Guidelines for Vyayama: A Tool for Health Promotion and Fitness Approach

Dr. Binod Kumar Singh — 2024-02-02

Vyayama (physical exercise) is an essential part of Ayurveda’s daily regimen (Dinacharya) and is widely recognized for its preventive and promotive role in health. Classical Ayurvedic texts provide personalized guidelines for Vyayama based on individual constitution (Prakriti), age, season (Ritu), and strength (Bala), which differ from general modern exercise protocols. This review integrates classical Ayurvedic literature and contemporary empirical studies to propose a comprehensive, Ayurveda-centered guideline for Vyayama. The guidelines emphasize personalized intensity, timing, frequency, and seasonal adaptations to promote sustainable health, fitness, and mental well-being. This Ayurveda-based approach may complement modern physical activity recommendations to enhance overall health and prevent lifestyle disorders.

Systemic Review of Dosha in Ayurveda and Its Biophysical Understanding

Dr. Mithilesh Kumar Sah — 2024-02-02

Introduction: Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medical system, utilizes the Tridosha theory—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—to explain physiological and psychological functions. This review explores the integration of Tridosha with biophysical principles to bridge traditional and modern scientific paradigms. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and classical Ayurvedic texts (1990–2025). Search terms included “Ayurveda Tridosha,” “Vata Pitta Kapha,” and “biophysics in medicine.” Studies addressing Dosha functions or relevant biophysical processes were included, with non-peer-reviewed sources excluded. Results: Vata governs movement and aligns with bioelectric processes (e.g., neural signaling), Pitta regulates metabolism and corresponds to thermodynamic principles (e.g., ATP production), and Kapha manages structure, relating to biomechanical properties (e.g., tissue integrity). Biophysical tools like EEG, metabolic profiling, and MRI can potentially quantify Dosha imbalances. Discussion: Integrating Tridosha with biophysics offers a framework for personalized medicine but faces challenges like empirical validation and methodological variability. Future research should focus on biomarker discovery and interdisciplinary collaboration to validate Ayurvedic principles scientifically.

Concept of Pathya Apathya and Yoga in Amenorrhea: A Review

Dr Renu Khayamali — 2024-02-02

Amenorrhoea, also known as anartava in Ayurveda, is a condition that occurs when women of reproductive age experiences absence of menstruation. This condition can result from multiple factors that disrupt hormonal balance leading to irregular or absent menstruation. The intake of wholesome (pathya) food and doing yoga have positive effect on the regulation of menstruation. Material and Methods: Materials related to Anartava and other relevant topics have been collected from compendiums and scientific articles from PubMed, Google Scholar and databases were searched with key words like Amenorrhoea, PCOS, Yoga, Anartava, Pathya apathya, etc. In this article various pathya apathya, their guna karma, yogasana and their influence in body and mind has been reviewed and scientific relevance has been sought. Anartava, on the basis of its cause and pathophysiology, should be managed holistically. And to be regulated alongside with pathya and yoga helps to reverse the disease with better efficacy and positive outcome.

Colon Cancer: Dietary Fiber and Beyond

Dr. Rehan Haider — 2024-02-02

Colon cancer remain is a significant health concern worldwide, with dietary factors playing a crucial role in its prevention and administration. Among these, fiber that can be consumed has long been acknowledged for its allure and potential securing effects against colon tumors. This review surveys the connection between able-to-be-consumed texture consumption and colon tumor risk, as well as delves into arising research on additional able-to-be-consumed components of further texture that concede the possibility of influencing colon cancer growth. Epidemiological studies have usually proved an opposite association ‘tween abstinence from food texture intake and colon malignancy risk. Fiber-rich foodstuffs, to a degree products, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, not only determine essential minerals but also contribute to bowel evenness and the sustenance of a healthy gut microbiota. These mechanisms grant permission to help decrease the risk of colon tumors by advancing optimal digestive function and uncovering potential carcinogens. Beyond texture, recent research has emphasized the significance of added, able-to-be-consumed factors in colon tumor control. These contain the role of particular micronutrients, to a degree calcium, a source of nourishment D, and folate, as well as bioactive compounds about plant-located foodstuffs, in the way that flavonoids and polyphenols. Additionally, certain abstinences from food patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, have been associated with a lower risk of colon cancer. while the ability to consume texture debris is a cornerstone of colon tumor prevention, continuous research underscores the significance of a complete approach to diet and behavior. Incorporating a variety of texture-rich cookings, in addition to adding nutrient-thick parts, concedes the possibility of offering synergistic benefits in lowering the risk of colon tumors. Further investigation into the complex interplay between diet, gut health, and colon cancer is warranted to inform targeted dietary interventions and public health strategies.

Bridging Competency Gaps: Training Needs for Nurses in Nepal’s Ayurveda Health Services

Dr Sunita Acharya — 2024-02-02

Ayurveda health centers in Nepal are integral to the national health system, yet they face a critical shortage of appropriately trained nursing staff. Modern nurses, while professionally skilled in biomedicine, often lack the Ayurveda knowledge and procedural competence necessary to deliver quality care in traditional medicine settings. This article reviews existing policies, frameworks, and global practices to assess the need for a standardized bridge course or integrative training program for nurses working in Ayurveda institutions. It identifies regulatory gaps and proposes policy recommendations for curriculum development, accreditation, and implementation. Addressing this training need is essential to enhance quality of care, ensure patient safety, and promote the credibility of Ayurveda in Nepal’s healthcare model.

Pharmacovigilance of Ayurvedic medicines in Nepal

Dr. Prashant Kumar Singh — 2024-02-02

The term “pharmaco” is derived from greek word “pharmacon” which means the medicine and the term “vigilance” is derived from latin word “vigilantia” which means alertness, wakefulness, watchfulness or attentiveness. WHO established its program for International Drug Monitoring in response to the thalidomide disaster detected in 1961. The aims of Pharmacovigilance are to enhance patient care and patient safety in relation to the use of medicines; and to support public health programs by providing reliable, balanced information for the effective assessment of the risk-benefit profile of medicines.

Effect of Ayurveda Drugs on Hyperkeratotic palmar dermatitis (Vatika kustha): A case Report

Dr Shashi Gupta — 2024-02-02

Hyperkeratotic palmar dermatitis (HPD) is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition primarily affecting the palms, characterized by thickened, scaly and fissured skin. It is often resistant to standard therapies and can significantly impair hand function and quality of life. In Ayurveda, it doesn’t have a one-to-one correlation with single name disease, but it can be conceptually correlated with Vatika kustha. It is associated with both endogenous and exogenous factors such as atopic diathesis, genetic predisposition, irritants, allergens, occupational and immunological factors. The dosha involves, is Vata causing dryness, scaling, thickening and cracking of the skin. Here is a case report of 62 year old male with complains of bleeding, itching, pain and blackish discoloration from past 3 months. Harida khandaa, Arogywardhani vati, Khadirarista and local application of Jatyadi taila, these were given to the patient as their treatment plan. Their treatment program also includes cleaning of the affected area, using lukewarm water, moisturization and education about palm care. The case was treated successfully within 21 days with the given medication. This will surely inspire to study the drugs at larger scale.

Ayurvedic Management of Indralupta (Alopecia Areata) through Jalaukavacharana and Internal Medications: A Case Report

Dr. Shiv Mangal Prasad — 2024-02-02

Indralupta is a tridoshaja Kshudra Roga involving sudden localized hair loss. loss caused by the vitiation of Vata and Pitta dosha that uproot hair from follicles, while Kapha and Rakta obstruct hair regrowth. It is clinically comparable to alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition in modern medicine where T-cells target hair follicles, resulting in patchy baldness. Conventional management involves the use of topical or systemic corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and minoxidil, which may yield temporary relief but often lead to recurrence, side effects, or resistance. There is a need for safer and more sustainable therapeutic alternatives, especially in pediatric cases. This case presents the successful Ayurvedic treatment of a 16-year-old female diagnosed with Indralupta using Jalaukavacharana (leech therapy), Rasayana, and Raktashodhaka medicines for three months. This approach yielded complete hair regrowth with no recurrence, emphasizing the effectiveness of Ayurvedic principles in managing alopecia areata.

Ayurvedic management of Khalitya (Hair fall) - A case study

Dr. Nirmala Suwal — 2024-02-02

Hair is the indicator of good health and enticing personality. From time immortal people has been trying different herbs and medicines to make their hair strong and healthy. Nowadays, hair fall problem is multiplying drastically due to unhealthy dietary pattern, imbalanced lifestyle, modified sleep pattern, challenging and stressful life, different kinds of chemical hair treatment and hair styling. Hair fall has been described as Khalitya in Ayurveda. The increased in pitta along with vata dosha causes vitiation in Rasa and Rakta dhatus causing hair fall and stops regeneration of hair. A 19 years old male patient visited our OPD with chief complain of hair fall during shower, Combing and gradual thinning of hair. The patient was diagnosed with Khalitya. He was advised to take Pittashamaka, Amapachaka and Vatanulomaka medicines internally along with external Therapies like Jalauka avacharana, Nasya, Kurchachikitsa and Lepa therapy. There was gradual decrease in hair fall after few weeks of treatment and new baby hair growth was observed trichoscopically and physically. This Khalitya case showed that proper application of both internal shaman chikitsa and external therapeutic treatment in scientific manner gives positive results.This treatment protocol can be followed and implemented and further exploration can be done by the researchers.