[Comparing the concept of "Removing Worms" between traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda -- An example of Qiye Qingnian Powder].

The popular formula Qiye Qingnian Powder, prescribed by Hua Tuo (BC145 - 208), is believed to "remove three kinds of worms, be conducive to the five main organs, keep fit, and prevent one's hair from turning gray". It is a representative formula in terms of "removing worms to prolong life" in traditional Chinese medicine. This paper focuses on "Qiye" in this formula, which plays an important role in removing worms, reviews its place in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Tibetan medicine, and Ayurvedic medicine and compares the concept of "removing worms" in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. It was found that the name and efficacy of Bhallataka in Ayurvedic medicine is related to "Qiye". It was also indicated that by comparing the concept of "worms" and the understanding of "removing worms" in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, in the theory of traditional medicines worms are the causative factor of diseases. Traditional Chinese medicine has rich connotations which involved medicinal concepts of Buddhism and Taoism and the idea of "removing worms to prolong life" is a unique contribution of traditional Chinese medicine to human health.

Ayurveda Management of Allergic Rhinitis: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is the inflammation of the membranes lining the nose due to allergen exposure and is characterized by sneezing, nasal congestion, itching of the nose, or postnasal discharge. The prevalence varies worldwide, perhaps due to the geographic and aeroallergen differences, with 10% to 30% of the world's population experiencing AR. In this study, Anu Taila Nasya, Naradiya Laxmivilas Rasa, and Shirishadi Kwath will be compared to a fluticasone nasal spray. OBJECTIVE: The primary aim is to assess the efficacy of Ayurvedic management for AR (or vataja pratishyaya) by comparing it to a conventional control group. The secondary aims are to determine the mean change in the nasal endoscopy index and the mean change in the laboratory tests. METHODS: This ongoing study is an open-label randomized controlled interventional trial, with a sample size of 90 both in the trial and standard control group (including dropouts, 20%), and will be carried out for 24 months. Participants in the trial group will receive Ayurvedic treatment, that is, Anu Taila Nasya (6 drops in each nostril for 7 days for 3 consecutive weeks), Naradiya Laxmivilas Rasa (250 mg twice per day), and Shirishadi Kwath (40 ml twice per day for 45 days). The participants in the control group will receive a fluticasone propionate nasal spray (2 sprays once per day for 45 days). The primary outcome will include the mean change in the Control of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Test score, and the secondary outcomes will include the mean change in the nasal endoscopy index (assessment of nasal membrane color, pale or hyperemia; rhinorrhea, watery or yellow; and inferior turbinate swelling, hypertrophy) and the mean change in the laboratory tests. RESULTS: As of May 2024, 72 patients have been enrolled in both groups. Data analysis should be completed by February 2025. The study will be reported following standard guidelines for reporting randomized controlled trials. Clinical results will be disseminated through conferences and peer-reviewed publication in a relevant journal. CONCLUSIONS: The Ayurvedic approach could be an evidence-based therapeutic tactic for the management of AR. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Trials Registry India CTRI/2023/06/053395; https://tinyurl.com/564d2zz8. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/56063.

Complete Resolution of Plantar Psoriasis With Ayurveda, A Case Report.

Background: Palmoplantar psoriasis is a type of psoriasis that primarily affects the palms and soles, characterized by erythematous plaques, scaling, and fissuring. These features can significantly impair the quality of life, varying in severity. Skin disorders often result from lifestyle changes, such as consuming an incompatible diet (Viruddha Ahaar Sewan refers to eating foods in a contradictory order or that vitiate the body's Doshas), unhealthy food habits and a sedentary lifestyle. Additionally, genetics, stress, exposure to radiation or UV light, and other environmental influences can contribute to skin problems. This case report describes the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and psychosocial impact of palmoplantar psoriasis in a 12-year-old male with a high recurrence rate, and highlights successful Ayurvedic management. Aim and Objectives: This case study aimed to document the Ayurvedic management and outcomes in a chronic inflammatory skin condition. Methods: A 12-year-old male presented to the Ayurvedic hospital with thick scaling, cracks/fissures, severe itching, and severe pain on both soles, along with a two-year history of recurrent plaques. Thorough analysis was conducted using Ayurvedic examinations, including Dashavidha (10-fold) and Ashtavidha (8-fold), to diagnose the root causes. The condition was managed with Ayurvedic Shaman Chikitsa, involving internal medicine (herbal formulations and dietary modifications) and external applications (therapeutic oils, pastes, and other topical treatments) to alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Observation: Assessment through scores based on clinical features and grading, which was 13 at the time of admission, 2 on day 15, and 0 on day 30. (higher the score higher is the severity of disease). Result: Major improvements in scaling, itching, cracks, and pain on the soles were observed after 15 days of treatment. After 15 days, internal medicines were discontinued, but external applications continued until complete relief, around the 25th day. The patient was reassessed on the 30th day, showing complete resolution of all signs and symptoms with no recurrence. Discussion and Conclusion: This study demonstrates that Vipadika (plantar psoriasis) in children can be treated using an Ayurvedic approach, which includes Abhyantar Chikitsa (internal medicines) and Bahya Chikitsa (external or local treatments). The detailed descriptions of all the medicines used, their contents, their applications, and the procedures followed are provided in the main text. This information will be beneficial for physicians, aiding them in effectively treating similar cases of psoriasis.

Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans-Related Panurethral Stricture Managed with Ayurvedic Uttar Basti therapy: A Case Report and Mini Literature Review.

Overview: Urethral stricture in male patients is a common problem, often necessitating surgical intervention. Sushruta has described Mootra marg sankoch (~urethral stricture) as a type of Mootraghat (~urinary retention). Pathologically, it involves the progressive fibrous narrowing of the urethral lumen. Generally, Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans begins at the prepuce and glans and gradually affects the entire urethra. Case report: We treated a 32-year-old male patient who had undergone repeated surgical interventions over the past nine years for urethral stricture. . Intervention: The patient was managed with Ayurvedic Uttar Basti therapy (procedure in which medicated oil is administered through urethral route) over approximately nine months. Result: During this period, significant improvements were observed in Uroflowmetry (UFM) parameters. Retrograde urethrography returned to normal after seven sessions of Ayurvedic Uttar Basti therapy. Specifically, there was approximately a 25% improvement in Maximum Flow rate, a 143% improvement in Average Flow Rate, and a 35.66% reduction in Voiding time. Additionally, the pin-hole meatus normalized, and the patient avoided further surgical procedures. Conclusion: The use of Uttar Basti, a traditional Ayurvedic treatment, in multiple sessions, provided significant improvement in flow rate and voiding time in this case, highlighting an effective alternative therapeutic approach for a condition typically managed with surgery.

Effect of a Customized Panchakarma (bio-purificatory) Treatment Plan in a Case of Urethral Stricture with Cystitis: A Case Report.

Objectives: Cystitis, inflammation of the bladder due to urinary tract infection, and Urethral stricture, narrowing of the urethra that obstructs the urine flow are conditions often aligned with the Ayurvedic concept of Mutraghata (urinary obstruction). This case report aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an Ayurvedic treatment protocol, including Udwartana (powder massage), Virechana (purgation), and Uttara Basti (enema) (urethral douche) on the parameters of Uroflowmetry. Methodology: A patient diagnosed with cystitis and urethral stricture underwent a series of Panchakarma (bio-purificatory) procedures. The protocol included Udwartana (powder massage), Avagaha Swedana (sitz bath), Virechana (purgation), Niruha Basti (enema) (decoction enema), Uttara Basti (enema) (urethral douche) using medicated decoctions and oils on alternate days. Post-discharge, the patient continued oral Ayurvedic medications at home. Uroflowmetry was employed to assess treatment effectiveness before and after the intervention. Results: Marked improvements were observed in Uroflowmetry parameters, including maximum flow rate, average flow rate, and voiding time along with a reduction in symptoms such as frequent urination, burning sensation during micturition, reduced flow, and the patient reported an enhanced quality of life, with better performances in daily activities. These improvements were sustained during the 60- day follow-up period. Conclusion: A combination of modified Uttara Basti (transurethral douche) and other panchakarma procedures, plus oral Ayurvedic medications was effective in relieving the symptoms of urethral stricture and improving Uroflowmetry parameters with sustained results during the 60-day follow-up period.

Ayurvedic Management of Presbycusis (Project TOPMAC): Protocol for an Exploratory Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Presbycusis is characterized by sensorineural hearing loss in both ears at high frequencies, which affects more than half of the older adults by the age of 75 years and is often accompanied by tinnitus and cognitive deterioration. Unfortunately, there are no treatments available to restore hearing loss. Treatment mainly focuses on improving the quality of life and communication with hearing aids. Traditional medicine like Ayurveda also explains ailments of a similar nature as Badhirya and advises using drugs with antiaging and neuroprotective activity for treatment. In Ayurveda, Badhirya and Karnanada (senile deafness with tinnitus) are due to vitiation of Vata Dosha. Treatments such as topical oil pooling (Karnapurana) are usually advised to counter Vata, improve hearing capacity, and reduce tinnitus. Kshirabala Taila, a medicated oil formulation prepared with Sida cordifolia Linnaeus, is one of the most preferred oils for topical oil pooling in such conditions, as it has a definitive indication for sensory dysfunctions. Drugs like Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha) are also used, as they ameliorate neurodegeneration and help to improve cognitive dysfunction. OBJECTIVE: We propose an exploratory randomized controlled trial study for evaluating the efficacy of TOPMAC (Topical Oil Pooling with Kshirabala Taila and Supplementation of Ashwagandha Churna) in tinnitus suppression and hearing and cognitive function protection in patients aged 60-75 years with mild to moderate presbycusis. METHODS: A parallel, 2-group, exploratory randomized controlled trial will be conducted in an Indian Ayurvedic research center at its outpatient service. Participants (N=60) with mild to moderate presbycusis will be recruited by screening. Participants will be randomized (computer-generated 1:1) to receive either basic treatment and health education (BTHE) or BTHE+TOPMAC for 24 weeks. The primary objective is to compare the efficacy of TOPMAC with that of BTHE in the protection of hearing function. The secondary objective is to compare the efficacy of TOPMAC with that of BTHE in tinnitus suppression and cognitive function protection. RESULTS: This project was funded in January 2023. The institutional ethics committees at National Ayurveda Research Institute for Panchakarma (3/1/2020/NARIP/Tech/2036) and Institute for Communicative and Cognitive Neuro Sciences (IEC006) approved this study. The first patient was enrolled in September 2023; 22 participants were enrolled as of August 2024. The data analysis is yet to start, and the results are expected to be published by January 2025. CONCLUSIONS: If this exploratory trial is proven effective, it will steer the setting of a definitive randomized controlled trial to test whether the TOPMAC intervention can be incorporated as a cost-effective integrative approach for managing presbycusis. The Indian government has already launched a National Program for Prevention and Control of Deafness to benefit the deaf population. TOPMAC may later be considered for integration with the national program. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Trials Registry India CTRI/2023/04/051485; https://tinyurl.com/2h2hry3n. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/55089.

Nanhai Jigui Neifa Zhuan: exploration of and research on hygiene, medicine and health care knowledge in ancient India.

BACKGROUND: The famous Tang Dynasty monk Yi Jing travelled to ancient India in 671 AD, visited more than 30 regions and returned to China in 695 AD. He wrote Nanhai Jigui Neifa Zhuan, which he completed in 691 AD. It describes the basic rules, namely 'Inner Dharma' (Neifa,) that Buddhist sites and monks should follow in their daily lives. Additionally, the author provided an overview of ancient Indian Buddhist medicine, covering aetiology, diagnosis, medication, acupuncture, health preservation and other aspects, which exhibited distinct characteristics. METHODS: This article first delves into the original text of Nanhai Jigui Neifa Zhuan by reading it thoroughly and extracts core chapters related to hygiene, medicine and health care. Later, the extracted information is meticulously classified and organised. Lastly, through a systematic literature review, keywords search, data screening and comparative analysis, an in-depth and comprehensive exploration and analysis of Nanhai Jigui Neifa Zhuan is conducted within the domains of hygiene, medicine and health care. RESULTS: Nanhai Jigui Neifa Zhuan emphasizes the importance of personal hygiene for ancient Indian monks and introduces the basic theories of ancient Indian medicine. It compares ancient Indian and Chinese medicinal materials, highlighting their respective roles in treating different diseases. Furthermore, it briefly discusses the storage and processing of ancient Indian medicinal materials, poisoning and toxicology, and ancient Indian health preservation ideologies. CONCLUSION: A comprehensive and in-depth study of traditional ancient Indian medicine, including Buddhist medicine and Ayurveda, and its application in the religious environment and communities of the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) aids in understanding the treatment methods and health practices of ancient Indian medicine. Additionally, it facilitates a deeper understanding of the similarities, differences and exchange between Chinese and Indian medicine, thereby opening up new horizons for future research.

Ayurveda therapy in the management of epilepsy.

Epilepsy, a chronic non-communicable disease of the brain, is one of the most common neurological diseases globally that affects people of all ages. The existence of medical, neurological, psychiatric, and cognitive comorbidities has always undermined the available advanced treatment strategies for epilepsy. New-generation antiepileptic drugs being less successful in completely controlling the seizures and observance of complex diseases, including drug-resistant cases, have provided scope for integrating and incorporating the therapeutic modalities of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian art of holistic medicine, in the effective management of epilepsy. Epilepsy can be correlated to Apasmara, described in the classics of Ayurveda as the transient appearance of unconsciousness with loathsome expression due to derangement of memory, intelligence, and mind. The multifaceted therapeutic approach of Ayurveda, which involves pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic measures, purificatory and pacifying procedures, herbal and herbo-mineral formulations, disease, and host-specific approaches, have enhanced the potential of not only relieving symptoms but also modifying the pathophysiology of the disease. Newer paradigms of research in Ayurveda, along with holistic and integrative approaches with contemporary medicine, can not only benefit the existing healthcare system but also impact future healthcare management in epileptology research. This cursory literature review is an earnest attempt to identify, evaluate, and summarize various studies and provide a comprehensive insight into the potential of Ayurveda in understanding and treating epilepsy.

COVID 19: Prevention and treatment through the Indian perspective.

The most destructive period the world has experienced seems to be behind us. Not a single nation was spared by this disease, and many continue to struggle today. Even after recovering from COVID, patient may continue to experience some post-COVID effects, such as heart irregularities or a decline in lung vitality. In the past three years (2019-2022), the world has witnessed the power of a small entity, a single peculiar virus. Science initially appeared to be helpless in this regard, but due to the emergence of disease, pharmaceutics (the development of anti-covid drugs), immunology (the rapid antigen test), microbiology (the isolation of viruses from infected people), biotechnology (the development of recombinant vaccines), biochemistry (the blood profile, the D-dimer test), and biochemistry (blood profile, D-dimer test), biophysics (PCR, RT-PCR, CT Scan, MRI) had worked together to fight the disease. The results of these efforts are the development of new diagnostic techniques, possible treatment and finally the availability of vaccines against COVID-19. However, it is not proven that the treatment through the traditional medical system is directly active on SARS-CoV-2 but is instead indirectly acting on SARS-CoV-2 effects by improving symptoms derived from the viral disease. In India, the traditional system of medicine and tradition knowledge together worked in the pandemic and proved effective strategies in prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2. The use of effective masks, PPE kits, plasma therapy, yoga, lockdowns and social seclusion, use of modern antiviral drugs, monoclonal antibodies, herbal remedies, homoeopathy, hygienic practice, as well as the willpower of people, are all contributing to the fight against COVID. Which methods or practices will be effective against COVID nobody is aware since medical professionals who wear PPE kits do not live longer, and some people in India who remained unprotected and roamed freely were not susceptible to infection. The focus of this review is on the mode of transmission, diagnosis, preventive measures, vaccines currently under development, modern medicine developed against SARS-CoV-2, ayurvedic medicine used during pandemic, homoeopathic medicine used during pandemic, and specific yoga poses that can be used to lessen COVID-related symptoms.

Evaluation of Comparative Efficacy of Levothyroxine Versus Kshar Basti and Kanchanar Guggul in the Treatment of Hypothyroidism: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland that has an impact on the body's general metabolism. Thus, the secretions of the thyroid gland can modify the overall metabolism of the entire body. The prevalence of hypothyroidism is increasing quickly, with rates of 2%-5% in affluent countries and 11% in India. Individuals diagnosed with hypothyroidism need to take medication for the rest of their lives, resulting in significant stress. Therefore, conducting a study in this area is imperative. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of the therapeutic enema (Kshar Basti) and oral Kanchanar Guggul in the treatment of hypothyroidism. METHODS: The trial group (n=45) will receive a therapeutic enema (Kshar Basti) followed by oral Ayurvedic drugs for 180 days. The control group (n=45) will be given levothyroxine tablets at a dosage of 1.6 µg/kg/day for the same duration. The objective is to examine the alterations in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels before and after the treatment. RESULTS: Any deviation of the serum TSH by more than 20% from the initial values, while keeping triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) levels within the normal range, will be deemed statistically significant. Consequently, we anticipate a statistically significant variation in serum TSH levels between the therapeutic enema and Kanchanar Guggul treatments. Presently, the drug preparation operations are in progress. We expect to start enrolling patients in June 2024, do data analysis in December 2025, and acquire results by early 2026, marking the end of this trial. CONCLUSIONS: This study will evaluate the efficacy of the therapeutic enema, specifically Kshar Basti, in treating hypothyroidism. Furthermore, more research can determine the efficacy of a therapeutic enema (Kshar Basti) in treating overt hypothyroidism and hypothyroidism during pregnancy. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Trials Registry India CTRI/2023/05/052389; https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?EncHid=Nzk1NjY=&Enc=&userName=052389. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/57287.

Antibacterial Efficacy of Hiora: An Ayurvedic Mouthwash in Children.

BACKGROUND: Mouthwashes, as a form of antimicrobial delivery system, rank among the safest and most effective vehicles, particularly in the case of young children. This is attributed to their ability to distribute therapeutic components across all accessible oral surfaces, including interproximal areas. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of recently introduced Ayurvedic (Hiora) and triclosan-based mouthwashes among children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 45 healthy children aged 10-15 years were randomly assigned to three groups: Herbal mouthwash (Hiora), triclosan-based mouthwash (Kidodent), and normal saline as the control group. Saliva samples were collected pre-rinse, 2 minutes, 30 minutes, and 60 minutes post-rinsing with the study mouthwashes. These samples were then inoculated onto Petri dishes containing blood agar culture media, followed by incubation under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions at 37°C for 48 hours. The resulting bacterial colonies of Streptococcus spp. and Lactobacillus spp. were counted (CFU/ml x 105). Statistical analysis, including ANOVA, Newman Keul's Post-hoc test, and a two-tailed 't' test, was conducted to determine the significance of the results. RESULTS: The Ayurvedic Hiora mouthwash demonstrated the most substantial reduction in salivary bacterial colony counts of Streptococcus spp. and Lactobacillus spp. with statistically significant results (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: The Ayurvedic Hiora mouthwash exhibited the highest antibacterial effectiveness, followed by the triclosan-based mouthwash in decreasing order, with saline showing the least efficacy.

Can Ayurveda medicine supplement modern medical treatments in chronic disease management?

The editorial highlights the fact that there is limited communication between healthcare providers and patients about complementary and integrative medicine (TCI) like Ayurveda. To address this, healthcare professionals need better education on Ayurveda. Additionally, international collaborations can enhance research and credible information, ensuring safe and effective patient care.

Etiopathogenesis and Management of Prameha Poorvaroopa (Prediabetes), Prameha and Madhumeha (Diabetes Mellitus): An Ancient Perspective.

Background: Prameha was identified in 1552 BCE as a Maharoga (major disease), one of the eight grave diseases of Ancient medical history. Initial days of recognition labeled Prameha as a rich man's disease, as found prevalent among people of higher socio-economic background. This fact was thereby linked with the diagnosis of diabetes and the invention of iron in the Iron Age, as wealthy part of the population who initiated consumption of newly harvested rice and wheat were found majorly diagnosed. Gradually, with the knowledge sought from Rigveda, Atharvaveda, Ayurveda, and Samhitas, the causes and types were identified, and further search conducted in Ayurveda resulted in denominating Prameha based on the body constitution and predominant dosha with its etiology in lifestyle and dietary factors, which, in the current scenario is known as diabetes mellitus. Objective: The objective of the current review is to find out and collate the information sought from published ancient literature on the origin and classification of Prameha with etiological factors. Method: Articles published between 1982 and 2021 in scientific domain was searched using several keywords in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Google, to find treatment approaches adopted by ancient medics to manage Prameha, Madhumeha, and Prameha Poorvaroopa. Classical literature was reviewed to understand the traditional approaches applied in the context of scientific interpretations. Content of this scriptural review was derived mainly from Rigveda, Atharvaveda, Ayurveda, Sushrutha Samhita, Charaka Samhita, Bhela Samhita, Harita Samhita, and Papillad Samhita. Summary: The finding of this study brings hope for further studies evidencing advantages in adopting the ancient wisdom while devising a strategy for the management of Prameha from a modern perspective.

Myth and reality of "theory-driven individualised practice" in Ayurveda: Mapping physicians' approaches using case-based scenarios.

BACKGROUND: The curricula of Ayurveda programmes emphasise various theoretical constructs such as Tridosha (three factors determining the state of health), Agnibala (digestive strength), Samprapti (patho-physiology), among others. It is often argued that practitioners follow an individualised approach based on these principles while treating patients. Yet, dependable data on their real-world influence is lacking. The aim of this study was to record the extent to which these constructs drive decision-making among Ayurveda practitioners and to examine whether these constructs determine individualisation of the interventions. METHODS: We employed an emailed survey to record physicians' perceptions. Convenience sampling was chosen as the sampling method. Registered Ayurveda practitioners located across India with a minimum of five years of clinical experience were invited to participate. Five case-based scenarios depicting different clinical conditions were presented to the physicians. Questions that accompanied each case scenario asked the physicians to record clinical diagnoses, treatment plans, and the Ayurveda principles that determined their treatment. RESULTS: A total of 141 physicians responded, from whom we received 152 responses as seven physicians responded to more than one scenario. The results suggest a significant lack of consensus among physicians regarding clinical diagnoses, interventions, and their understanding of pathophysiology in the given clinical scenarios. Many conflicting opinions were also noted. CONCLUSION: Theoretical constructs do not appear to determine either prescriptions or individualisation uniformly. Two ethical questions arise: "Is this situation due to an inherently weak theoretical framework of Ayurveda?" and "How can one justify spending hundreds of hours teaching these theories?"

In-depth phytochemical profiling of Roscoea purpurea (Kakoli): Comparative UHPLC-MS/QToF and GC-MS/MS analysis of supercritical CO2 fluid - and conventional solvent - based extractive processes.

The remarkable biodiversity of medicinal plants worldwide highlights their significance in traditional and alternative medicine. Astavarga, a group of eight medicinal herbs from the Himalayan region of India, including Roscoea purpurea (commonly known as Kakoli), is esteemed in Ayurveda for its health-promoting and rejuvenating properties. In this comprehensive study, we aimed to develop and optimise robust UHPLC-MS/QToF (Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry coupled with quadrupole time of flight) and GC-MS/MS (Gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry) methods to identify the phytochemicals in R. purpurea root hydromethanolic extract and essential oil. We also conducted a comparative assessment of supercritical fluid extraction and conventional solvent extraction methods for the first time in R. purpurea root, highlighting their relevance to the medicinal field. Using the UHPLC/MS-QToF method, we identified a total of fifty-six phytometabolites, while sixteen volatile constituents were discerned within the essential oil of R. purpurea by GC-MS/MS method. Among the volatile constituents, ß-eudesmol (40.84 %), guaiac acetate (10.55 %), and γ-eudesmol (10.31 %) were emerged as the principal components. Our findings were further compared with the volatile constituents extracted via supercritical fluid extraction and conventional solvent extraction methods. Notably, our research unveiled the presence of a carotenoid metabolite, 15-methyl retinol, for the first time. Furthermore, our fatty acid analysis of the supercritical fluid extract revealed elevated levels of unsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic and linoleic acids. The methods were validated in terms of system specificity also. The discovery of these well-recognised therapeutically active components in R. purpurea significantly enhances its potential, highlighting its unique profile among medicinal plants in the Himalayan region and its suitability for traditional Ayurveda.

In mouse model of mixed granulocytic asthma with corticosteroid refractoriness, Bronchom mitigates airway hyperresponsiveness, inflammation and airway remodeling.

BACKGROUND: Asthma is a heterogeneous, inflammatory disease with several phenotypes and endotypes. Severe asthmatics often exhibit mixed granulocytosis with reduced corticosteroid sensitivity. Bronchom is a newly developed Ayurvedic prescription medicine, indicated for the treatment of obstructive airway disorders. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the in-vivo efficacy of Bronchom in mouse model of mixed granulocytic asthma with steroidal recalcitrance. METHODS: High-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) and Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) were employed to identify and quantitate the phytometabolites present in Bronchom. The preclinical effectiveness of Bronchom was assessed in house dust mite (HDM) and Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced mixed granulocytic asthma model in mice. High dose of dexamethasone was tested parallelly. Specific-pathogen-free C57BL/6 mice were immunized with HDM and CFA and nineteen days later, they were intranasally challenged with HDM for four consecutive days. Then the mice were challenged with nebulized methacholine to evaluate airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR). Inflammatory cell influx was enumerated in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) followed by lung histology. Additionally, the concentrations of Th2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines was assessed in the BALF by multiplexed immune assay. The mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and Mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) was also evaluated in the lung. RESULTS: HPTLC fingerprinting and UHPLC quantification of Bronchom revealed the presence of bioactive phytometabolites, namely, rosmarinic acid, gallic acid, methyl gallate, piperine, eugenol and glycyrrhizin. Bronchom effectively reduced AHR driven by HDM-CFA and the influx of total leukocytes, eosinophils and neutrophils in the BALF. In addition, Bronchom inhibited the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the lung as well as goblet cell metaplasia. Further, it also suppressed the elevated levels of Th2 cytokines and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the BALF. Similarly, Bronchom also regulated the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as MUC5AC in mice lungs. Reduced effectiveness of a high dose of the steroid, dexamethasone was observed in the model. CONCLUSIONS: We have demonstrated for the first time the robust pharmacological effects of an herbo-mineral medicine in an animal model of mixed granulocytic asthma induced by HDM and CFA. The outcomes suggest the potential utility of Bronchom in severe asthmatics with a mixed granulocytic phenotype.

Āyurveda Formulation Advanced Database

The NLAM database is a repository of botanical information to Ayurveda formulations. It serves a resource for interested in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, providing detailed descriptions and properties of these medicinal herbs. The database includes botanical information about each of the 700 plants, detailing their role in Ayurveda formulations.

Ayush Research Portal

Ayush Research Portal is a platform dedicated to collecting, curating, and disseminating evidence-based research data on AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) systems at a global level. Its mission is to support the integration of traditional and alternative medicine into mainstream healthcare by providing scientifically validated information. It contains research studies, clinical trials, systematic reviews, and other scholarly articles related to AYUSH systems. The data is validated to ensure accuracy and reliability, making it a valuable resource for researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers.

DHARA Digital Helpline for Ayurveda Research Articles

DHARA is a online index that catalogs articles on Ayurveda published in research journals worldwide. This resource provides access to a scholarly information, supporting the global academic and research community in their exploration and understanding of Ayurvedic medicine. By aggregating diverse research articles, DHARA enhances the visibility and accessibility of Ayurvedic knowledge, promoting its integration into contemporary health practices.