Hybridization among distantly related species: Examples from the polyploid genus Curcuma (Zingiberaceae).

Discerning relationships among species evolved by reticulate and/or polyploid evolution is not an easy task, although it is widely discussed. The economically important genus Curcuma (ca. 120 spp.; Zingiberaceae), broadly distributed in tropical SE Asia, is a particularly interesting example of a group of palaeopolyploid origin whose evolution is driven mainly by hybridization and polyploidization. Although a phylogeny and a new infrageneric classification of Curcuma, based on commonly used molecular markers (ITS and cpDNA), have recently been proposed, significant evolutionary questions remain unresolved. We applied a multilocus approach and a combination of modern analytical methods to this genus to distinguish causes of gene tree incongruence and to identify hybrids and their parental species. Five independent regions of nuclear DNA (DCS, GAPDH, GLOBOSA3, LEAFY, ITS) and four non-coding cpDNA regions (trnL-trnF, trnT-trnL, psbA-trnH and matK), analysed as a single locus, were employed to construct a species tree and hybrid species trees using (*)BEAST and STEM-hy. Detection of hybridogenous species in the dataset was also conducted using the posterior predictive checking approach as implemented in JML. The resulting species tree outlines the relationships among major evolutionary lineages within Curcuma, which were previously unresolved or which conflicted depending upon whether they were based on ITS or cpDNA markers. Moreover, by using the additional markers in tests of plausible topologies of hybrid species trees for C. vamana, C. candida, C. roscoeana and C. myanmarensis suggested by previous molecular and morphological evidence, we found strong evidence that all the species except C. candida are of subgeneric hybrid origin.

An exploratory single-arm open-label clinical study to evaluate the combined effect of Vamana and Sarasvata Churna in reducing excessive daytime sleepiness.

BACKGROUND: Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS) is inferred as persistent sleepiness and often a general lack of energy during the day even after apparently adequate or even prolonged nighttime sleep. The subjects may not be identifying excessive daytime sleepiness but may present as feeling tired, lack of energy etc. They may seem apparently healthy and without any other systemic illness. The prevalence was found to be as high as 18 % in 2012 in United Kingdom. Also, it is a risk factor for diseases like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Conventional management (Modafinil, Sodium Oxybate and Stimulants) addresses only the subjective condition in EDS and is associated with adverse effects compromising the quality of life. In the current health scenario there is a need for alternative interventions to manage this disease. On analyzing this condition through Ayurveda, we could understand it as Nidradhikya (Excessive daytime sleepiness) which is caused due to vitiated Kapha Dosha along with Vriddha Tamoguna (increased Tamoguna) that can be managed by Shodhana (biopurification) followed Shamana (pacification) therapies. OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed to assess the combined effect of Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) and Sarasvata Churna in reducing Excessive Daytime Sleepiness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a single-arm exploratory open-label clinical trial. 10 subjects having EDS diagnosed using Modified Epworth Sleepiness Scale (MESS) with a score of 10-24 with proper exclusion were recruited from OPD and IPD, Department of Kayacikitsa, Amrita School of Ayurveda. All the participants were clinically examined, sought for medical history and further checked biochemically to exclude any other systemic illness that may lead to this condition. Only healthy subjects with quality night sleep (assessed by PSQI) and without any other systemic illness were selected. The treatment protocol adopted was Vamana Karma followed by 30 days of Sarasvata Churna as Shamana Aushadha (medicine for pacification). Assessment was done using MESS on 0th day and after 30 days of Shamana Aushadha Sevana. After completion of treatment, the results were statistically analysed using Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and final conclusion was drawn. RESULTS: On analysis of the symptoms using Modified Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the mean total score reduced from 14.8 to 2.8 with 81.08 % relief in these 10 subjects and a significant p value < 0.05 after Vamana followed by 30 days of Shamana Aushadha Sevana. DISCUSSION: Vamana helps in Kapha Nirharana (expelling) which removes the Avarana (occlusion) of Manas seen in Nidradhikya. This results in Hrit Shuddhi (purity of heart) that helps in bringing the equilibrium of Mano Gunas (qualities of mind) (Satvoudaryam Tamojayaha) which forms the line of management. Sarasvata Churna which was administered as Shamana Aushadha possesses Medhya (Nootropic), Buddhi Smriti Dhriti Vardhaka (intellect, memory and patience promoting) attributes and is being indicated in Vicetas. Most of the drugs in Sarasvata Churna are Rasayana (rejuvenation) that imparts Indriya Bala (strengthening of senses) and Priti (contempt) to Manas by Prinana (nourishing) of Rasa Dhatu. CONCLUSION: From this study, we could conclude that the combination of Vamana Karma followed by Sarasvata Churna administration is effective in reducing EDS.

A comparative analysis of Vamana and ShamanaChikitsa in prediabetes management: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Prediabetes is a condition before manifestation of diabetes. It is associated with biochemical change in body due to disturbances in food habits, sleep patterns and sedentary lifestyle. Conventional system of medicine has limitations, however Ayurvedic medicines can be effective for management of this condition. OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of Vamana Karma (∼therapeutic emesis) followed by Darvyadi Kwatha (∼herbal decoction) with that of oral medication of Darvyadi Kwatha with lifestyle modification in reducing HbA1c of the prediabetic participants. METHODOLOGY: After approval of IEC and registration under clinical trial registry of India, 40 patients were registered in two groups suffering from prediabetes in the trial. The primary criteria were HBA1c, FBS & PPBS along with secondary criterias like Agnibala (∼strength of digestion and metabolism), Dehabala (physical strength) and Satvabala (mental strength) relief in signs & symptoms of Prameha and quality of life (SF-36 Score). RESULTS: Statistically significant results were observed in both the parameters: (primary & secondary) within the group [VM group (HbA1c (<0.001), FBS (<0.001) & PPBS (<0.001) and SM group (HbA1c (<0.001), FBS (<0.001) & PPBS (<0.001)] and between the group [HbA1c (P < 0.01), FBS (P < 0.01), SF-36 score (P < 0.001) as well. CONCLUSION: The present clinical study suggests that there is significant improvement between the groups. On comparision, it was found that treating prediabete.s Shodhana was more safe & effective than Shamana.

Personalized ayurvedic approach involving Sadyo Vamana in COVID-19 management: A case report.

Sars Cov-2 has emerged as a global threat worldwide. At present, India is the second worsely-hit nation by COVID-19. Since it is a novel virus, there is no specific treatment strategy available at present. A mild symptomatic case of COVID-19 was managed through Ayurvedic intervention involving a personalized approach based on his Prakruti. He was prescribed Vamana Karma followed by Vyaghryadi Kashaya as an oral drug for fifteen days. The patient recovered well clinically, the disease progression to a more severe stage was not observed and the patient tested negative for COVID on the 17th day. In this report, the patient was of Kapha predominant Prakruti and his strength was good so he was prescribed Vamana Karma. Ayurveda advocates patient management by incorporating personal physical and mental attributes classified as Doshas. The promising results in the present case study indicate that a personalized approach involving Ayurveda in such cases can be helpful for a better prognosis.

Efficacy of Vamana Karma (therapeutic emesis) followed by Darvyadi Kwatha (herbal decoction) in the management of prediabetes (Prameha) - A single-arm clinical trial.

Background: Prediabetes is an alarming condition to control and prevent from developing diabetes mellitus which occurs due to the change in lifestyle and food habits. Timely untreated prediabetes turn into type-2 diabetes mellitus within a year and systemic complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy could occur and in later stage multi system damage could take place. Aims: The ai of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of Vamana Karma (therapeutic emesis) with Ikshuvaku Yoga and followed by oral administration of Darvyadi Kwatha (herbal decoction) in the management of prediabetes. Materials and methods: After approval of IEC and registration under clinical trial registry of India, 20 patients suffering from prediabetes were registered in the trial. Diagnosis criteria were hemoglobin A1c (HBA1c), fasting blood sugar (FBS) and postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), and assessment criteria includes HBA1c, FBS, PPBS, along with improvement in Agnibala (strength of digestion and metabolism), Dehabala (physical strength) and Satvabala (mental strength), relief sign and symptom of prediabetes (Prameha), and improvement in quality of life (SF-36 Score). Classical Vamana Karma followed by oral administration of Darvyadi Kwatha was done. Total duration of treatment was 45 days and last follow-up was done on the 120th day. Student's t- test was used for the analysis of parametric data. Results: After the treatment were observed that there is improvement in subjective as well as in objective parameters. Statistically highly significant result was observed in HBA1c (BT [day 0] Mean score 6.25 and AT [day 120] 5.63 [P < 0.001]), FBS (BT [day 0] mean score 120.05 and AT [day 120] 93.31 [P < 0.001]) and PPBS (BT [day 0] mean score 165.26 and AT [day 120] 112.84 [P < 0.001]), sign and symptoms of Prameha, Dehabala, Agnibala, Satvabala, and quality of life (SF-36 Score). Conclusion: The present clinical study concludes that therapeutic emesis (bio purification) followed by Darvyadi Kwatha as internal medicine shows significant result in treating prediabetes (Prameha) safely and effectively also control and prevent developing diabetes mellitus. None of the patient converted to diabetes mellitus on the day 120.

Thuvaraka rasayana regimen in Psoriasis vulgaris - A case report.

Psoriasis is one among the wide-spreading, chronic, frequently recurring diseases of the skin. Its world prevalence varies between 0.09% and 11.4% in 2013 which reported in 2006 as in between 0.5% and 4.6%. In Ayurveda, the description of Kushta-roga viz. Vata-Kaphaja kushta finds similarity with psoriasis. The common sites of occurrence of psoriasis are scalp, elbow, knee, earlobes and sole which are also considered as the location of Vata and Kapha. The science of Ayurveda has anecdotal accounts of success in the management of psoriasis in the actual clinical practice even though it lacks the evidence-based medical dermatology research data. It observed that the physicians adopt several treatment protocols for the cure of this disease in clinical practice, which was not rigorously evaluating in research settings. This paper/report is one of on the 'Thuvaraka rasayana' is one such component that could improve treatment outcomes in Psoriasis. A pre and post test case report selected of a 36-year-old lady patient who diagnosed as having stable psoriasis vulgaris for last seven years. She was administered with internal and external therapies along with Shodhana therapies (bio-cleansing procedures) and then followed by intake of Thuvaraka rasayana. The total duration of the treatment was 43 days, and the Study subject assessed before treatment, after treatment and on follow-up for improvement using PASI scoring, and histo-pathological study. All the symptoms observed in the beginning were found considerably reduced, and the severity also found mild. On the follow-up, it concluded that the lesions disappeared completely and the skin set back to its normal texture. Even though psoriasis is an autoimmune disease where recurrence rate found more Shodhana therapy and Thuvaraka rasayana have a definite role.

Prevention of Chronic Migraine Attacks with Acupuncture and Vamana Dhauti (Yogic Therapeutic Self-Induced Emesis) Interventions.

Chronic migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder. Conventional treatment has been providing symptomatic relief by reducing the symptoms of pain and vomiting. In addition, there are side effects associated with these medications. A 53-year-old male presented with chronic migraine with aura. He was treated for acute symptoms for 10 days with the following acupuncture points at the EM 6 (Qiuhou), ST 8 (Touwei), GB-8 (Shuaigu), LI 4 (Hegu), and ST 44 (Neiting). In addition, Vamana Dhauti (VD) (self-induced emesis) was taught once followed by VD practice once a week as part of a long-term follow-up for 10 years. Results suggest that acupuncture is beneficial to reduce the acute symptoms of migraine and the possible frequency of migraine attacks. However, VD has shown to be beneficial in reducing the frequency of migraine attacks over a period of time and eventually led to the complete cessation of migraine attacks. In conclusion, randomized controlled trials are required for testing the efficacy in managing migraine.

Comparative study of Anuvasana Basti with constant and escalating dose as an alternative to Snehapana in Purvakarma of Vamana and Virechana.

BACKGROUND: Snehapana is the essential step prior to Vamana and Virechana (therapeutic vomiting and purgation). But it was found that 10-15% patients are reluctant towards Snehapana hence may deprive the benefits of Shodhana. These inconveniences made us think about effective alternative to counter drawbacks of Snehapana. On the basis of literature review and pilot study, it was confirmed that, Anuvasana Basti can be administered as an alternative for Snehapana. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate samyak snigdha lakshana achieved by administration of Anuvasana Basti and to evaluate outcomes of Vamana and Virechana. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Specially designed basti pouches were used according to doses. In group A, constant dose of processed sesame oil (120 ml) and rock salt (500 mg) was used. In group B, the dose was escalating started with 120 ml and 500 mg with 25 ml and 100 mg increase in sesame oil and rock salt respectively for maximum seven days. RESULTS: Patients from group B showed better results than group A i.e. 29 patients showed symptoms of proper oleation. Mridu koshtha required minimum dose and duration for getting proper symptoms of oleation. Outcome of Vamana and Virechana were also very promising. CONCLUSIONS: Hence it can be concluded that Anuvasana Basti in escalating dose can be used as an alternative for Snehapana.

Efficacy of Vamana Karma with Ikshvaku Ksheera Yoga in the management of Tamaka Shvasa (bronchial asthma).

INTRODUCTION: Bronchial asthma is a highly prevalent disease, and in most of the etiopathogenesis and symptomatology, it can be correlated with Tamaka Shvasa. Ikshvaku (Lagenaria vulgaris [Manila] Standley.) is an annual herbaceous climbing plant with a long history of medicinal uses for the treatment of various ailments including jaundice, diabetes, ulcer, piles, colitis, asthma, insanity, hypertension, congestive cardiac failure and skin disorders. Its fruit pulp is used both as an emetic and as a purgative. AIMS: To study the efficacy of Vamana Karma with Ikshvaku (Lagenaria vulgaris [Manila] Standley) Ksheera Yoga. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 15 patients fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for bronchial asthma were selected from outpatient and inpatient department of Panchakarma Department. The sign and symptoms, mainly breathlessness, cough and rhonchi were given scores depending on their severity. The patients were also assessed for lung function test to determine pulmonary impairment. For Vamana, they were given Deepana and Pachana with Trikatu Churna for 3 days and then they were subjected to Snehapana with lukewarm cow's ghee. After the completion of Snehapana, the patient were given Abhyanga, Vashpa Swedana and diet with predominance of Kapha (Kapha Bahula Ahara- diet mixed with milk or curd), which was then followed by Vamana with Ikshvaku Ksheera Yoga and Samsarjana Krama. Follow-up was done at an interval of 15 days for three times and t scores were noted before and after the treatment. The scores were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test for subjective parameters and Student's paired t-test for objective parameters. RESULTS: The trial drug has shown statistically highly significant reduction in breathlessness, cough, rhonchi, and significant changes in lung function tests. CONCLUSION: The test drug proved its emetic effect on the patients of bronchial asthma and thus relieved the symptoms of the disease immediately. It has reduced frequency of episodes of breathlessness and severity of symptoms.

Clinical efficacy of Vamana Karma with Ikshwaaku Beeja Yoga followed by Shatapushpadi Ghanavati in the management of Artava Kshaya w. s. r to polycystic ovarian syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Due to sedentary lifestyle and stress, the incidence of metabolic disorders are increasing day by day. Among these polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is an intricate disorder affecting 4%-8% women in their reproductive age and related to ovarian dysfunction characterized by obesity, oligomenorrhea, anovulation and hyperandrogenism. In modern system of medicine, the available allopathic regimen has its own limitations, so it is need of time to find a safe and effective alternative therapy for such type of condition. The most common symptom in 85%-90% of PCOS patients is oligomenorrhea which can be correlated to Artava Kshaya (loss of menstrual fluid) in Ayurveda. Hence, in the present clinical study, Vamana Karma (therapeutic vomiting) with Ikshwaaku seed formulation followed by Shatapushpadi Ghanavati was planned. AIMS: To evaluate the efficacy of Vamana Karma (therapeutic vomiting) followed by Shatapushpadi Ghanavati in the management of Aartava Kshaya (loss of menstrual fluid) w. s. r to PCOS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 15 patients of PCOS were clinically diagnosed and treated by Vamana Karma (therapeutic vomiting) procedure with Ikshwaaku seed formulation. After completion of Vamana Karma (therapeutic vomiting) and Samsarjana Krama, (post therapy dietary regimen for revival) Shatapushpadi Ghanavati 2 Vati (each 500 mg) twice in a day with lukewarm water was given for 45 days. After completion of 2-month trial, assessment of therapy was estimated by subjective and objective parameters. RESULTS: Statistically extremely significant (P < 0.0001) results were found in menstrual irregularities, obesity, and body mass index. The significant result in reduction of nondominant follicles (P = 0.01 and 0.03 for right and left ovary, respectively), lowering the fasting blood sugar level (P = 0.02) and hirsutism (P = 0.03) was found. CONCLUSION: Vamana Karma (therapeutic vomiting) followed by Shatapushpadi Ghanavati is very effective in the management of obese PCOS patients and increasing chances of conception.

A Clinico-analytical Study on Seed of Wrightia antidysenterica Linn. as a Therapeutic Emetic Agent (Vamaka Yoga) in the Management of Psoriasis.

OBJECTIVES: Wrightia antidysenterica Linn. (WA) is male variety Kutaja stated to be potent therapeutic emetic agent in skin disorders. Expulsion of doshas through oral route is termed as Vamana Karma (VK) (therapeutic emesis). However, so far, its utility for Vamana is not explored in detail, therefore there is a need to revalidate the utility of WA for Vamana. Hence, the above study was conducted to ascertain the efficacy as a therapeutic emetic agent (vamaka yoga) in the management of psoriasis along with quality control and standardization of this herb. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The drug was standardized as per analytical procedures in Pharmacopeias. Thirty patients of psoriasis fulfilling inclusion criteria were taken for the study and Vamana with WA was conducted. Criteria were prepared to assess the signs and Symptoms of psoriasis. VK was assessed using the classical Lakshanas (features) such as Anthiki shudhi (Ending symptoms of emesis), Vaigiki shudhi (features of vomiting bouts), Maniki shudhi (Quantitative and qualitative purification), complications. RESULT: VK with WA showed significant relief in parameters of psoriasis such as scaling, itching, candle grease sign (P < 0.001), and psoriasis area and severity index score (P = 0.001). In VK with WA, mean number of Vegas (vomiting bouts) was 6.91. 66% patients showing quantitative purification between 301 and 600 ml. 73.33% showed all Symptoms of purification. 73.33% patients showed Kaphanta vamana (Moderate expulsion of desire humor). In the level of biopurification, 66.66% patients showed moderated purification. No complication was noted with moderate drug palatability. CONCLUSION: Pharmacopeial analytical study showed its standardized values for testing the drug used for the study. It is proved as potent therapeutic emetic agent with no complication showed its clinical benefits over skin disorder like psoriasis. SUMMARY: Seeds of Wrightia antidysenterica (WA) Linn. free from any foreign matter were selected for the study. Loss on drying revealed 6.535% moisture content; total ash indicating of total inorganic content was found to be 5.12%; acid insoluble ash is the acid insoluble part of total ash, mainly silica, WA showed 0.393% acid insoluble ash; ethanol and water soluble extractive is indicative of percentage active constituents were found to be 25.66 and 20.854%, respectively. High-performance thin layer chromatography fingerprinting profiles of WA under 254 nm showed the presence of 7 spots (all in green) at Rf values ranging from 0.21 to 0.88. Under 366 nm there were 4 prominent spots (all in fluorescent) at Rf 0.49 to 0.82 and, when scanned under white light 620 nm following derivatization with vanillin sulfuric acid 6 spots (in different colors) were evident at Rf 0.28 to 0.58. Among these spot with Rf of 0.58 was common when visualized under all the three methods. Rf values by densitometric scan of WA showed 12 peaks at 254 nm and 5 peaks at 366 nm. However, in clinical trial, it was found to be a potent emetic agent without any complication. Abbreviations Used: WA: Wrightia antidysenterica; Linn.; VK: Vamana karma; BT: Before treatment; FP: Freidman's P value; CHS: Chi-square value; NR: Negative ranks; PR: Positive ranks; N: Sample number, AS: Austipz sign; CG: Candle grease test; SSL: Samyak Snigdha Lakshana.

Comparative study of Vamana and Virechanakarma in controlling blood sugar levels in diabetes mellitus.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) with its devastating consequences is a global health problem of this era. Presently India is having the largest diabetic population of 50.8 million. The characteristic features of DM have close resemblance with Prameha (obstinate urinary disorders including diabetes) in Ayurveda. Madhumeha is a Vatika subtype of Prameha that is most close to DM. One variety of this Madhumeha (DM) is Aavaranjanya (due to occlusion) in which Vayu aggravates due to occlusion by Pitta or Kapha. This type of Madhumeha (DM) can be managed if Samshodhana (bio-cleansing) is used in early stages of disease followed by palliative treatment. Vamana (emetic therapy) and Virechana (purgation therapy) are the Samsodhana Karma (bio-cleansing therapies) that are compatible to overcome this Aavarana (occlusion). A comparative study was planned to compare their efficacy in controlling blood sugar levels in patients with DM. Although none of them were completely able to control blood sugar in the long-term but the study yields some very interesting results in reducing the blood sugar levels which could be useful in the future studies related to DM.

A comparative clinical study on standardization of Vamana Vidhi by classical and traditional methods.

Vamana Karma (process of emesis) is considered as Pradhana Karma (prime procedure) meant for inducing therapeutic vomiting, indicated for the purification of Urdhwa Bhaga (upper part) of the body. It is the process by which contents of stomach, including Kapha and Pitta are expelled out of the body through oral route. Acharya Charak and Sushruta have advocated various procedures for Vamana Karma known as classical methods, whereas some traditional methods are also being followed. As very little works has been carried out in the direction of Vamana Karma and as not a single work has been carried out on standardization of Vamana Vidhi comparing to both classical and traditional methods, the present study had been selected. The clinical trial was conducted in a randomized sample of 50 individuals (Both patients and volunteers) resolved into two sub-groups, viz. individuals in Group A was performed Vamana with classical methods and Group B with traditional methods. From the observations and results obtained in the present clinical study, it can be concluded that the method mentioned in classics is very much beneficial from every point of view in comparison to the traditional method. It is very easy, safest, less time-consuming and clinically as well as statistically most effective method without producing any type of complications.

Clinical efficacy of Shodhana Karma and Shamana Karma in Mandala Kushtha (Psoriasis).

In India an estimated 0.8% of the population is suffering from Psoriasis. It is a papulo-squamous disorder of the skin, characterized by sharply defined erythemato-squamous lesions. It is chronic and is well known for its course of remissions and exacerbations. The exact etiology is still unknown. This condition is comparable with Mandala Kushtha in Ayurvedic system of medicine. Shodhana procedures are reliable to control the disease. Forty patients, fulfilling the inclusion criteria, were selected and randomly divided into four groups with 10 patients in each group. In Group A, Vamana and Virechana was administered once during the trial period. In Group B, Vamana and Virechana followed by Dermo-care in the dose of 5 g twice a day for the period of 2 months. In Group C, only Dermo-care was administered. In Group D, Tab. Neotrexate (Methotrexate) 7.5 mg/week was given under the supervision of dermatologist. Marked improvement was observed in 10% of the patients in Group B. Moderate improvement was observed in 20% of the patients in Group A, 90% in Group B, and 80% in Group D. Mild improvement was observed in 80% of the patients in Group A, 100% in Group C, and 20% in Group D.

Role of Sadyo Vamana in dental abscess (danta arbuda).

Sadyo Vamana is a type of purificatory measure mentioned in Ayurveda, which to expel the pus and morbid factors present in a dental abscess without opening it. However, Sadyo Vamana's role in fever and pus filled dental abscess has not been reported so far. I report a case of dental abscess with fever. A 24-year-old male patient with a pus filled dental abscess. His fever and dental abscess didn't respond to antibiotic and analgesic treatment for 10 days. The patient was given Sadyo Vamana (instant therapeutic emesis) to expel the accumulated pus in dental abscess without opening it. The patient got complete relief from fever and dental abscess after Sadyo Vamana. The patient not gave internal medication.

Physiological and biochemical changes with Vamana procedure.

Vamana Karma (therapeutic emesis) primarily a Samshodhana Karma (purification procedure) is one of the five Pradhana Karmas (chief procedures) of Panchakarma. It is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts that a person after Samyak Vamana (proper Vamana) experiences lightness of the body, Hrit (precordium), Kantha (throat/voice), and Shirah (head) and weakness. This procedure is effectively used in healthy and ailing persons for purification of body and extraction of Doshas (especially Kapha) in Ayurvedic system. It has been found worth to observe the physiological and biochemical changes during Vamana and after the procedure to understand the effect/safety margins of the procedure in healthy volunteers.

A comparative study of Vamana and Virechana Karma in the management of Sthula Pramehi w.s.r. to Type-2 diabetes.

In the present study, Vamana and Virechana along with palliative treatment was given to patients of Sthula Prameha (Diabetes mellitus or DM). An attempt was made to compare and evaluate the role of Shodhana therapy (Vamana and Virechana). Total 47 patients of Sthula Pramehi were registered in this study, out of which 38 completed the treatment. The patients were divided into two groups, viz. Vamana with Shamana (Group A) and Virechana with Shamana (Group B). Eighteen patients completed the treatment in Group A and 20 in Group B. Neem giloy satva capsule was used as Shamana drug at a dose of 500 mg twice daily after meals for 30 days in both the groups. The efficacy of therapy was assessed based on relief in cardinal signs and symptoms and blood sugar, lipid profile and other biochemical parameters etc. The results showed that the Vamana provided better relief in signs and symptoms as well as on fasting blood sugar (FBS) and postprandial blood sugar (PPBS) in comparison to Virechana.

A comparative study on Vamana Karma with Madanaphala and Krutavedhana in Ekakushtha (Psoriasis).

Vamana Karma (therapeutic emesis) is the best therapy for the elimination of vitiated Kapha Dosha. In the present clinical practice Madanaphala (Randia dumetorum) is mainly used for Vamana Karma. Apart from Madanaphala, five other drugs, and in total 355 formulations are described in Charaka Samhita; one of them is Krutavedhana (Luffa acutangula) kalpa (formulations). Krutavedhana is specially indicated in Gadha (compact) Dosha condition like Kushtha (skin diseases), Garavisha (slow poison), and so on, for Vamana Karma. The present study aimed to observe the effect on Vamana Karma and by that its effect on Ekakushtha (Psoriasis). Krutavedhana Beeja Churna (seed powder) was given with Madhu (honey) and Saindhava (rock salt) as Vamana Yoga (emetic formulation), to compare it with Madanaphala Pippali Churna (seed powder). After the Sansarjana Krama (special dietetic schedule), Panchatikta Ghrita (medicated ghee) was given as Shamana Sneha (pacifying oleation). An average dose of Krutavedhana was 5.9 g. Krutavedhana could produce a good number of Vega (bouts), Pittanta Lakshana (bile coming out at the end of Vamana), and Pravara Shuddhi (maximum cleansing) in a majority of patients. Madanaphala is the best among all Vamaka (emetic) drugs, but Krutavedhana showed a similar to higher effect on Vamana Karma in terms of Antiki, Maniki, Vaigiki, and LaingikiShuddhi (cleansing criteria). Vamana Karma by Krutavedhana showed better relief in Matsyashakalopamam (silvery scale), Kandu (itching), and Rukshataa (dryness), while Madanapahala showed better relief in Krishnaruna Varna (erythema). After completion of the Shamana (pacifying) treatment, both the groups showed nearly the same effect on Asvedanam (lack of perspiration), Matsyashakalopamam, Kandu, Rukshataa, Krishnaruna Varna, and Mahaavaastu (bigger lesion).

A study on Vasantika Vamana (therapeutic emesis in spring season) - A preventive measure for diseases of Kapha origin.

Panchakarma is the most essential part of Ayurveda treatments. It is preventive, preservative, promotive, curative and rehabilitative therapy. Ayurveda believes in strong relationship between macrocosm and microcosm and states that the seasonal changes will influence the biological systems resulting into the accumulation and aggravation of particular Dosha in a particular season like accumulation and aggravation of Kapha in Hemant Rutu (winter season) and Vasant Rutu (spring season) respectively, accumulation and aggravation of Pitta in Varsha Rutu (rainy season) and Sharad Rutu (autumn season) respectively. Vasantika Vamana is done in spring season approximately in the month of March and April for the elimination of vitiated Kapha Dosha which in turn helps to prevent the forth coming Kapha disorders and associated Pitta disorders or diseases originating or settled in the place of Kapha like bronchial asthma, allergic bronchitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, migraine, hyperacidity, indigestion, anorexia, obesity, overweight, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, acne vulgaris, psoriasis, eczema, urticaria etc. In this study, a total of 89 persons were registered and 69 volnteers/patients undergone classical Vamana Karma without any major complications. Average minimum, maximum, total dose and total days of Snehapana were 36.40 ml, 187.21 ml, 578.59 ml and 5.01 days respectively. Average quantity of Madanaphala, Ksheera, Yashtimadhu Phanta and Lavanodaka was 5.81 g, 1130.29 ml, 3202.9 and 2489.13 ml respectively. The results were encouraging; hence, further studies may be conducted including large population in this direction.

Observations on Vamana procedure in healthy volunteers.

Vamana Karma is one of the five Pradhana Karmas of Panchakarma which is successfully used in treating Kaphaj disorders. Panchakarma is also indicated in healthy states. (C.Su. 16/13-16) for Shodhana. Textual references are available in Ayurvedic classics, but the procedure needs to be validated in the modern times when Ahara Shakti, Bala and Agni of the individuals have decreased considerably. So the effect of procedure was observed in 30 healthy volunteers of age group 18 to 60 years. Lakshanik, Vaigiki, Maniki and Antiki Shuddhi were observed and vomitus was analyzed macroscopically, microscopically and chemically.