EFFICACY OF JĀNUDHĀRA (MEDICATED OIL POURING OVER THE KNEE) WITH MAHABALA TAILA IN COMPARISON TO KETAKYĀDI TAILA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS OF KNEE - A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Abstract

Introduction: Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common degenerative joint disorder and a major cause of pain and disability, especially among the elderly. In Ayurveda, the condition closely resembles Sandhigata Vāta (degenerative joint disorder). Jānudhāra (continuous pouring of lukewarm medicated oil over the knee joint) is categorized under Snehayukta Svedana (unctuous fomentation therapy) due to its combined oleation and sudation effects. Previous studies on Ketakyādi Taila had established its effectiveness in osteoarthritis management. Mahābala Taila is commonly employed for osteoarthritis of the knee, though systematic research data regarding its clinical efficacy are limited. Aim and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of Jānudhāra using Mahābala Taila and Ketakyādi Taila in the management of osteoarthritis of the knee and to determine any significant difference in symptom relief and joint mobility. Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 24 patients diagnosed according to the American College of Rheumatology clinical criteria. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups. The trial group received Jānudhāra with Mahābala Taila, while the control group received Jānudhāra with Ketakyādi Taila, once daily for seven consecutive days. Assessment was carried out using the WOMAC score and range of motion measured by goniometry at baseline, Day 8, and Day 15. Results: Both groups showed statistically significant improvement in WOMAC total scores and knee joint range of motion. Intergroup comparison revealed no statistically significant difference between the two groups. No adverse drug reactions were reported during the treatment or follow-up period. Discussion: Comparable outcomes observed in both groups suggest that the therapeutic benefit may be largely attributed to the combined oleation and sudation effects of Jānudhāra rather than the specific oil used. Both formulations reduce pain and functional limitation in knee osteoarthritis through similar mechanisms of action. Conclusion: Jānudhāra with Mahābala Taila is equally effective as Ketakyādi Taila in reducing pain, stiffness, and functional disability in knee osteoarthritis.