International Journal of Applied Ayurved Research

NARDOSTACHYS JATAMANSI (JATAMANSI): BRIDGING AYURVEDIC CONCEPTS AND CONTEMPORARY NEUROPHARMACOLOGY — A NARRATIVE REVIEW

2026-09-12T22:55:11+0530

Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi) is an established and traditional medicinal plant, used in various neuropsychiatric disorders and several other diseases. The drug is very well described in the Ayurvedic system of traditional Indian medicinal practice. It is said to possess Medhya (cognitive-enhancing), manasika shamaka (mind-calming) and Hridya (cardiotonic) actions. A large number of reports are available that describe its sedative, anxiolytic, antidepressant, antioxidant, anticonvulsant and neuroprotective actions, proving several claims made in traditional Ayurvedic literature. The present review aims to explain the properties of Jatamansi. that are explained in classical Ayurvedic texts and deals with the phytochemical constituents and pharmacological actions of Jatamansi. The literature search was carried out using databases such as PubMed, PMC, ScienceDirect and AYU journals, and from classical texts up to July 2025. The drug Jatamansi contains sesquiterpenes and is mainly attributed to jatamansone and nardostachone, which are responsible for CNS activity of the plant. Several experimental studies, as well as a few human clinical trials, have been conducted to establish the potential of the drug to treat several diseases, including those related to insomnia, anxiety, depression and neurodegenerative diseases. However, the studies conducted so far have some limitations, such as lack of standardization, unoptimized doses, and compromised quality of clinical trials. Thus, the review highlights the need for an integrated approach to carry out research on Jatamansi, using the knowledge of the plant as explained in the classical texts of Ayurveda, along with the principles of evidence-based pharmacology to establish the drug’s therapeutic potential and safety.

TENDER COCONUT BASED DECOCTIONS IN KERALIYA BALACHIKITSA: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF KARIKKU KASAYAM AND RELATED FORMULATIONS

2026-07-29T14:04:12+0530

Background: Pediatric treatises of Kerala describe a distinctive decoction preparation known as Karikku Kasayam, in which tender coconut water serves as the liquid medium instead of water. This pharmaceutical process differs considerably from the conventional method of Kwatha Kalpana. The present review aims to explore the classical references, pharmaceutical methodology, and potential therapeutic significance of Karikku Kasayam.

Aim: The aim of the study is put an insight on various references and indications of Karikku Kasayam, throw light upon other tender coconut-based decoctions and to understand the mode of action of Karikku Kasayam.

Methods: References pertaining to tender coconut-based decoctions were collected from Vaidyatarakam and Arogyakalpadrumam, the pediatric texts of Kerala. Additional information was obtained from classical Ayurvedic texts, including Charaka Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya and Sarangdhara Samhita along with relevant databases.

Conclusion: Karikku Kasayam represents a unique pharmaceutical preparation in the Keraliya pediatric tradition, distinguished by its use of tender coconut water and indirect heating. Although it is widely used by traditional practitioners, particularly in the management of pediatric dermatological disorders, its method of preparation presents both advantages and limitations.

Clinical Significance This review consolidates the available classical evidence on Karikku Kasayam. By highlighting its distinctive pharmaceutical process, traditional therapeutic indications, and potential clinical applications, the review provides a scientific basis for its rational use in pediatric practice. It also identifies critical gaps in pharmaceutical standardization and clinical evidence, thereby facilitating future pharmacological and clinical investigations to validate its safety, efficacy, and therapeutic potential.

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF RAYNAUD’S SYNDROME SECONDARY TO INFLAMMATORY POLY ARTHRITIS VIA UTTANA VATARAKTA AND SANDHI-SIRAGATA VATA FRAMEWORKS: A CASE REPORT

2026-08-31T11:27:18+0530

Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is an episodic, vasospastic disorder typically characterized by digital vascular compromise following exposure to cold and/or emotional stressors, commonly associated with underlying autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. Its clinical presentation may significantly affect quality of life, particularly when associated with inflammatory polyarthritis. This case report details the successful remote Ayurvedic management of Raynaud’s phenomenon secondary to inflammatory polyarthritis in a female patient presenting with cold-induced digital color changes, severe paresthesia, and joint pain. Clinical manifestations were correlated with Uttana Vatarakta and Sandhi-Siragata Vata. Intervention combined Antaparimarjjana Chikitsa (internal formulations such as Rasna Saptakam Kwatha, Punarnnavadi Kwatham, Yogaraja Guggulu, Chandraprabha Vatika, etc.), Bahiaparimarjjana Chikitsa (external therapies such as Local lepa(paste application), abhyanga(oil massage), parisheka (affusion), sirodhara (pouring oil over the head in a continuous stream), etc.), and sodhana chikitsa (purificatory treatments): Virechana (purgation). Treatments significantly reduced vasospastic attack frequency and severity, resolved numbness, and relieved polyarticular pain and morning stiffness. This study demonstrates a non-invasive, structured Ayurvedic protocol for secondary Raynaud's phenomenon that can be delivered via telemedicine, offering a practical integrative alternative when standard vasodilators or immunosuppressants are insufficient or poorly tolerated.

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF OLIGOASTHENOSPERMIA THROUGH SHAMANA CHIKITSA, VIDDHAKARMA AND BASTI: A CASE REPORT

2026-09-12T12:04:08+0530

Background: Oligoasthenospermia refers to a reduced sperm concentration together with reduced sperm motility and is one of the more commonly identified findings in male infertility. In Ayurveda, such conditions are described under Shukra Dushti and Shukra Kshaya, broadly referred to as Shukralpata and are understood to arise from vitiation of Pitta, Kapha or Vata dosha along with disturbance of Shukra dhatu.

Case Presentation: A 37 years old male patient presented with a 4-5 years history of Krucchavyavayata with early ejaculation along with Daurbalya (weakness), constipation, bloating, Hritkanthadaha (burning sensation), Alpanidra (reduced sleep) and other associated complaints. Semen analysis showed oligoasthenospermia. The condition was clinically assessed as Shukralpata with features of Pitta-Rakta involvement and Apana Vayu disturbance. Multiple dietary and lifestyle factors including Ushna-Tikshna Ahara (hot and spicy food), alcohol intake, smoking, irregular sleep due to shift duty, curd intake and excessive intake of cold water were identified. Ayurvedic examination showed Kaphapittaja Prakriti and Kaphavataja Vikriti. The patient was treated for 45 days with Nidana Parivarjana (avoidance of causative factors), Viddhakarma (Therapeutic bloodletting by puncturing) and internal Ayurvedic medicines. Viddhakarma was performed twice weekly for 3 weeks. The internal medicines were planned in phases with Pitta-pacifying (pacification of Pitta), Anulomana (elimination), Rasayana (rejuvenative therapy) and Brimhana (nourishing therapy) objectives followed by Yogabasti (therapeutic course of Basti consisting of Niruha and Anuvasana Basti).

Outcome: On repeat semen analysis performed after treatment, sperm concentration increased from 3 million/mL to 83 million/mL, total sperm count per ejaculate increased from 7.5 million to 207.5 million, total motility improved from 10% to 60% and viability improved from 50% to 82%. Progressive motility increased from 0% to 27%.

Conclusion: This case suggests that an individualized Ayurvedic approach combining Nidana Parivarjana, Shamana Chikitsa (Palliative treatment), Viddhakarma and Basti may be useful in the management of Shukralpata.

INTEGRATED REHABILITATION (DASHAMULA QUATHA AVAGAHA WITH PHYSIOTHERAPY) OF COLLE’S FRACTURE – CASE REPORT

2026-08-23T15:45:55+0530

Colle’s fracture is the commonest type of wrist and hand fractures. It is associated with a traumatic history of fall, on an outstretched hand, common in females over 40 years of age usually associated with osteoporosis. Majority of Colle’s facture is displaced and presents with ‘dinner-fork’ deformity. After 5-6 weeks of immobilisation consolidation of the fracture is firm enough, though not completely united, to ensure no further displacement. Hence post-immobilisation rehabilitation can be started to avoid any stiffness or pain in wrist joint. In this paper a 33 years old female patient had suffered left colle’s fracture and immobilised for 6 weeks. After immobilisation an integrated approach was chosen as choice of treatment, using both Ayurveda treatment – Dashamula quatha avagaha (immersion sudation in medicated decoction) along with Physiotherapy modalities – wax therapy and exercise therapy. The rate of recovery is faster measuring in terms of pain, movements, oedema and stiffness due to cumulative effects of treatments than only with Physiotherapy.

EFFECTIVENESS OF VAMANAKARMA (THERAPEUTIC EMESIS) IN MUKHADŪṢIKĀ (ACNE VULGARIS) – A PRE TEST POST TEST DESIGN

2026-09-05T11:56:47+0530

Acne vulgaris is one of the most prevalent chronic inflammatory disorders of the pilosebaceous unit, affecting individuals worldwide, particularly during adolescence and early adulthood. It is characterized by the development of non-inflammatory lesions such as open and closed comedones, as well as inflammatory lesions including papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. The condition primarily involves sebaceous gland rich areas of the body, such as the face, chest, shoulders, and upper back. Although it is not a life-threatening condition, it can result in permanent scarring, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and considerable psychological distress, including reduced self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, thereby significantly impairing quality of life. Due to its high prevalence, multifactorial etiology, and psychosocial impact, acne vulgaris remains a major public health concern. Conventional management strategies for acne vulgaris primarily provide symptomatic relief and are often associated with disease recurrence following discontinuation of treatment. In Ayurveda, acne vulgaris is correlated with Mukhadūṣikā, for which Vamana Karma is considered the principal line of treatment, aiming to eliminate the vitiated doṣa and address the underlying pathology. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective, single arm, pretest–posttest interventional study enrolled 10 participants with a Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) score of ≥19. The treatment protocol comprised Sadya Snehapāna with cow’s ghee (50 ml daily) administered along with broken rice gruel for 3 days, followed by Abhyanga, Uṣhma Sweda, and Utkleśa Āhāra for one day. Vamana Karma was then performed using Madanapippalī Cūrṇa, Vacā Cūrṇa, Yaṣṭimadhu Cūrṇa, Saindhava, and honey. Clinical severity was assessed using the Global Acne Grading System, while the impact on quality of life was evaluated using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire on 0^th and 12^th day, no follow-up period was included. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t test. RESULTS: The intervention produced a statistically significant reduction in the GAGS score (p < 0.05), indicating its clinical effectiveness in reducing the severity of acne vulgaris. A statistically significant improvement in patients' quality of life was also observed, as evidenced by a reduction in the DLQI score (p < 0.05).DISCUSSION: Mukhadūṣikā is predominantly a Kapha dominant disorder with the involvement of Vāta and Rakta.Vamana Karma, being the most effective therapy for the elimination of Kapha Doṣa, helps in breaking this Samprāpti by expelling aggravated Kapha along with associated Vāta and partially vitiated Rakta, considering the Āśraya Āśrayī relationship between Rakta and Pitta. CONCLUSION: The findings of this prospective, single arm, pretest–posttest interventional study indicate that Vamana Karma has the potential to reduce the severity of Mukhadūṣikā (acne vulgaris) and improve clinical outcomes.