EPIGENETICS, SOCIAL DETERMINANTS AND TRANSFORMATION – NATURE AND NURTURE

There is emerging scientic research and evidence which visibly demonstrates that internal body environmental inuences can not only impact genes but also how they are expressed. Scientists have discovered that early experiences can determine how genes are turned on and off and even whether some are expressed at all. Epigenetics is the study of how behaviours and environment can cause changes that affect the way the genes work. Unlike genetic changes, epigenetic changes are reversible and do not change the DNA sequence, but they can change how our body reads a DNA sequence. There is strong inuence of the epigenetics on social life. The ancient Indian systems of Ayurveda and Yoga indeed have strong bases for the same. It would be appropriate to further explore the same through inter disciplinary research

Parallel Study of Medodhara Kala and Abdominal Adipose Tissue with Special Reference to Sthoulya (Obesity)

Obesity which is neuroendocrine disorder seems to be common predisposing factor for almost all non-communicable diseases. This neuroendocrine disturbance causes multiple systemic disorders and finally Ayurhasa (reduction in longevity of life) by various means. Ayurveda mentioned eight pathophysiological conditions considered as Nindya (worse conditions). Atisthool (excessive weight) is one of these conditions due to improper Aahara (dietary habits), Vihar (sedentary life style) and changed sleep pattern. Apachita meda (improperly metabolized fat) deposited in Udara (abdomen). Medodharakala according to Ayurveda and abdominal linings bear several similar characteristics related to fat and Medodhatu deposition. Deterioration of functioning of Medodhara kala leads to deposition of Apachita meda leading to Sthoulya. In obesity, abdominal wall, space between organs stores much amount of adipose tissue (site of Meda deposition). So this article reveals with parallel study of Medodhara kala and abdominal adipose tissue to find out similarity.

Evidence Based Study of Surasadi Gana on Respiratory Disorders: A Review

Introduction: Collection of medicinal herbs having similar effect are collectively known as Gana (group) in Samhita and Vargas (category) in Nighantu. Surasadi Gana is included in 37 of such groups mentioned in Sushruta Samhita, with 21 Herbs completing the group. This article is made in a view to review the importance and utility of few herbs included in Surasadi Gana indicated for the management of respiratory disorders. Material and Methods: The literature regarding the drugs mentioned in the group, collected from different Ayurveda classics. Research papers are compiled from published sources and discussed in light of therapeutic effects. Observation and Result: Maximum of the herbs in this group are having properties as Katu rasa (pungent) and Ushna veerya (hot potency). Such herbs are predominantly advised in Kapha (phlegm humour) dominant diseases, viz. Kasa (cough), Shwasa (asthma), Pratishyaya (common cold), Kushtha (skin disorders), Krimi (worm infestation) and Vrana (wound). Conclusion: The herbs, despite having several Ayurvedic indications, the respiratory tract is the focus of the specific activity.

Ayurvedic Management of Acute Dissociative Reactions to Stressful Life Events - A Case Study

Mental diseases known as dissociative disorders are characterised by a sense of discontinuity and separation from one's thoughts, memories, environment, activities, and identity. People with dissociative disorders unintentionally and unhealthily flee reality, which makes it difficult for them to carry on with daily activities. Dissociative identity disorder (DID, sometimes known as multiple personality disorder), fugue, "psychogenic" or "functional" amnesia, and depersonalization disorder are examples of dissociative disorders. Other specified dissociative disorder is subcategory of dissociative disorders that describes presentations in which symptoms are typical of a dissociative disorder but do not fully match the diagnostic criteria for any of the illnesses in the diagnostic class of dissociative disorders. In Ayurveda this condition can be considered as Unmada. 34 year female patient hailing from Malappuram, Kerala, brought to Manasanthi OPD of VPSV Ayurveda College, Kottakka,l by husband and relatives complains of lack of desire to live, wants to end her life, loss of sleep, difficulty to walk and doing daily activities since 3 days. She was very much concerned about the behavioural issues and wellbeing of her elder son since 12 years. According to the informant, the patient was having increased tension, repeated talking about her elder son, making loud noises and suicidal thoughts. Also, she had an attempt to suicide. She was treated on an IP level with a combination of Ayurvedic internal medications and Panchakarma procedures. The treatment protocol includes Snehapana, Virecana, Nasya, Shirodhara, and Dhoopana. Satvavajaya methods including Yoga also administered. There were considerable relief from symptoms and HAM D score was reduced from 21 to 6.

Effect of Sodhananga Achasnehapana Followed by Virechana in the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Case Report

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, progressive autoimmune arthropathy and characterized by bilateral symmetrical involvement of joints with some systemic clinical features. Treatment in allopathic medicine involves NSAIDS and steroids, which carry their own collateral burden of side effects in long term use. According to clinical features, described in Ayurveda, Vatarakta closely resembles with Rheumatoid arthritis. The study is done to find the effect of Sodhananga Achasnehapana with Guggutiktaka ghritha followed by Virechana with Nimbamrita eranda taila in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Methods: It is a simple random single case study done at Government Ayurveda College Panchakarma Hospital, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram. Here a case of Vatarakta (Vatakapahadikam) was treated with Sodhananga Achasnehapana with Guggutiktaka ghritha followed by Virechana with Nimbamrita eranda taila after Rukshana karma. Results: The treatment was effective in reducing the ESR, RA factor and CRP levels of the patient diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis. Conclusion: The case report shows that Ayurvedic treatment is potent and effective in the management of Rheumatoid arthritis. There was no adverse effect found in the treatment. Hence it can be concluded that RA can be effectively and safely treated by using the Chikitsa siddhanta mentioned in Ayurveda

A Critical Review of Nirgundi (Vitex Negundo linn.)- In Classical Texts

Nirgundi is a large aromatic shrub or small tree grows upto 4.5m height common throughout the country. Nirgundi is clinically used in many diseases by all most all traditional system of medicine because of its diverse medicinal properties. The drug was mentioned during Vedic period and was used in various diseases in Ayurveda since Samhita kala. Nirgundi is having Katu Tikta Kashaya Rasa, Laghu Ruksha Guna, Ushna Veerya and Vata Kaphahara property. Nirgundi is having Deepani, Kusghtaghna, Krimighna, Medhya, Shothahara, Shulahara Karma, and mainly used in Vatavyadhi, Karna Roga, Krimi Kushta, Rajayakshma, Gulma Chikitsa. For the fulfillment of treatment in Ayurveda the knowledge of Dravya including its Rasapanchaka, synonym are very important, without the knowledge of which the treatment is impossible. Nirgundi is one such drug having diversified properties and the opinion of different authors regarding the use of the drug is very necessary in treating diseases starting from common fever to anxiety. Thus the synonyms and their interpretation, Vernacular names, Rasapanchaka, Rogaghnata and Karma, Yoga of Nirgundi in Brihatrayi and various Nighantus Dhanwantri Nighantu, Shodhala Nighantu, Madanpala Nighantu, Kaiyadeva Nighantu, Raja Nighantu and Bhavprakasha Nighantu, has been described and this paper presented a classical review of Vitex negundo Linn. mentioned in Ayurveda.

Confessions of an Ayurveda professor

In this essay, I narrate my experiences of teaching Ayurveda physiology through an approach that involved laborious re-interpretation of ancient literature using the recent advances in the field of medical physiology. Though this approach made the ancient concepts and theories appear modern and relevant, it did not contribute much except for apparently reducing cognitive dissonance among students. I cite examples describing the processes of formation of shukra (semen) and rakta (blood) to show how we often overinterpret Ayurveda concepts to make them sound rational by proposing ad hoc conjectures. I illustrate why my previous writings were faulty by applying the falsification principle proposed by Karl Popper. I further explain how this approach made these concepts only verifiable but not refutable, and hence, non-falsifiable. I argue that instead of using such re-interpretation to prove obsolete concepts, they can be dropped altogether from the curricula of Ayurveda programmes. There is a need to develop a reliable method to identify such outdated content.

Critical Analysis of Charakokta Mahakashaya in the Management of Respiratory System Disorders w.s.r. Covid-19 Pandemic

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on January 30, 2020. There is currently no specific drug or targeted intervention available, and current therapy consists solely of symptomatic treatment and supportive care. Objective: The goals of this theoretical research, which grew out of this literature review, were to critically review Charakokta Mahakashaya in the management of respiratory system disorders w.s.r. COVID-19 pandemic and interpret its significance in the modern era. Methodology: The present work is primarily based on theoretical research using related research articles, standard textbooks of epidemiology and classical treatises of Ayurveda. Discussion: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed several challenges to the Indian healthcare system. In Ayurveda, the concept of epidemic was well defined under the heading of Janapadodhwansa. It has been discovered that deaths in COVID-19 were caused by a lack of immunity. The Rasayana drug, which provides passive immunity based on Ojas, antagonises the strength of disorders and prevents them. The AYUSH ministry has issued numerous guidelines regarding COVID-19 potential treatment, which must be statistically studied. Along with combating the current situation, objective assessment of the scientific plausibility of botanical interventions for prevention and treatment is critical, and the world's scientific minds are expected to begin planning strategies for the future as well. Conclusion: To combat this pandemic, the prophylactic and therapeutic potential of traditional and complementary medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Yoga can be demonstrated as effective COVID-19 prophylaxis and adjuvant therapy.

Importance and Utility of the Principle of Ayurveda for Community Health

A nation is built by its citizens and these citizens with their good health, hard work determines the future of a nation. To ensure a bright and prosperous future we need to focus on the health of a community. Community health is defined as simple services that are delivered by common men outside hospitals and clinics. Community health services can be classified into Preventive Health Services, Promotive Health Services, Curative Health Services, and Rehabilitative Health Services. Preventive health services include measures by which we can avoid the disease before its occurrence Dincharya, Ritucharya, Sadvrit, Tryoupstham, and Vegdharan can be included in this category. Similarly, promotive heath care services include Rasayan, Vaajikaran, Ashtaaharvidhi vishesh ayatan, Sadvrit, Tryoupstham. Curative health services include single-drug therapy for the different diseases called Ekal dravya and treatment of Kaas, Swash, Atisaar, Amlapita which are very common. Rehabilitative health services such as physical therapy, counseling, and other mental health services can be provided by Ashwashan chikitsa, Medhya rasaayan, Yoga, Pathya palan, Padansikkarm palan.

Case Study of Ayurvedic Management of Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a group of permanent, non-progressive motor impairment syndromes secondary to lesions or anomalies of the brain arising in the early stages of its development. It has a high prevalence rate of 2- 3 per 1000 children. Among the various types, spastic cerebral palsy remains the most common, affecting about 61% of all people with cerebral palsy. In Ayurveda, this could be taken as a Vata predominant condition and included as Sarvangavata. Vatavyadhi treatment like Snehana, Swedana, Shodana and Brimhana, along with supportive therapies could give wonderful results. An 8 ½-year-old boy, a known case of post meningeal hydrocephalus with spastic cerebral palsy was treated in the In-Patient Department of Government Ayurveda College, Thiruvananthapuram. He was treated based on the principle of Vatavyadhi chikitsa with various Ayurvedic medicines internally and appropriate Panchakarma procedures, along with physiotherapy and speech therapy. He has been assessed before and after the treatment using the Modified Ashworth Scale and Barthel Index, and noticeable improvement has been got. Here spastic cerebral palsy was managed solely using Ayurveda medicines, the apt Panchakarma procedures and supportive therapies. Significant improvements in the quality of life of the child was seen. Ayurveda treatments along with supportive therapies are highly effective in managing spastic cerebral palsy, thereby imparting a better standard of living.

Randomized Clinical Trial of an Ayurvedic Formulation, BV-7310 in Alcoholic Liver Disease

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is caused by excessive intake of alcohol for many years. The incidence is as high as 25% in the United States, India and several other countries. The disease spectrum varies from fatty liver in initial stages, to hepatitis and finally cirrhosis. Untreated ALD can be fatal. Yet the options for prescription drugs are limited, and not easily available or affordable to the masses worldwide. BV-7310 contains herbal extracts of Phyllanthus niruri, Tephrosia purpurea, Boerhavia diffusa and Andrographis paniculata. The individual plants are known hepatoprotective agents in Ayurveda. The objective of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of BV-7310, a proprietary combination standardized formulation, in subjects with ALD. A multi-centric, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study of 61 subjects was conducted for a period of 12 weeks. Subjects on BV-7310 showed improvement in clinical features of ALD as compared to placebo, including reduction and normalization of transaminases. BV-7310 also reduced bilirubin levels to normal, showing improvement in the detoxifying and excretory capabilities of the liver. No significant adverse events were seen in the treatment group. Based on the data shown, BV-7310 shows promise as a safe and effective hepatoprotective in patients of ALD.

A PRECLINICAL STUDY ON EVALUATION OF ANTICANCER ACTIVITY OF SNUHI KSHARA IN HUMAN COLON CANCER CELL LINE HCT-15

Snuhi (Euphorbia neriifolia Linn.) is a conventional herb used broadly in several disease conditions as indicated in classical texts of Ayurveda. As per literature review ascertained, no literature was accessible regarding anticancer activity of Snuhi Kshara. Thus, present work was designed to evaluate the anticancer activity of Snuhi Kshara in HCT-15 (Human Colon Cancer cell line). Anticancer activity was evaluated using MTT assay by % cell viability and IC50. Anticancer activity was compared with standard drug capecitabine. A positive correlation between Concentration and % cell viability was noticed. Lowest cell viability was noted at 5000 µg concentration. Results obtained through the study indicates towards anticancer activity of Snuhi Kshara.

Marketing-strategies-of-dabur-amidst-shift-in-consumer-behavior-towards-ayurvedic-products-during-covid19

Covid 19 pandemic has crucially affected the economy, health and other spheres of life. This unprecedented pandemic has severely affected consumer attitudes, behaviorism, and purchasing habits.The rapid shifts in consumer behavior patterns have major implications on consumer goods industries. Now, most of the purchases are centered on basic needs specially health and nutrition for general well-being. In present situation, consumers are fascinated towards health and immunity boosters. Personal health and hygiene has become a top priority of the people.People are changing their buying preferences based on global circumstances, the product categories being purchased are also changing. The market is also flooded with immunity boosters especially Ayurvedic products, hygiene and sanitizing solutions.. The most important change that this pandemic has brought in the consumer behavior is that they are now moving from reactive to proactive mindsets and because of Ayurveda there will surely a sales boost in those kind of products as consumer focus and priorities shifting towards inner health and immunity. Major players in the Indian market include Dabur India Limited, Himalaya Drug Company Private Limited, Patanjali Ayurved Limited, Shree Baidyanath Ayurved Bhawan Private Limited, Charak Pharma Private Limited, Emami Limited, Vicco laboratories. These key players are building Ayurveda as a brand through their innovative marketing strategies and giving a boost to the Ayurveda sector. Before Covid, the situation goes the same for the companies but this pandemic makes a change in the concept of consumerism. Consumerism is also looking for new aspects as only dumping and increasing consumption of products is not the way for the future. Now consumers are more focused on saving money, saving health and saving for the future.One more new concept is emerging with it is adjusting to a New Normal which means a new way of living and going about our lives, work and interactions with other people. The factors that influence brand decisions are also changing as a "buy local" trend accelerates. Vocal for a local tagline has also created an emphasis on local products rather than well- established brands.Digital commerce has also seen a boost as new consumers migrate online for grocery shopping – a rise that is likely to be sustained post-outbreak. This paper focuses on the shift in buying behavior of consumer towards Ayurvedic products and changing marketing strategies of Ayurvedic companies specially Dabur in India in alignment with consumer preferences

Ayurveda and in silico Approach: A Challenging Proficient Confluence for Better Development of Effective Traditional Medicine Spotlighting Network Pharmacology / 中国结合医学杂志

Coalescence of traditional medicine Ayurveda and in silico technology is a rigor for supplementary development of future-ready effective traditional medicine. Ayurveda is a popular traditional medicine in South Asia, emanating worldwide for the treatment of metabolic disorders and chronic illness. Techniques of in silico biology are not much explored for the investigation of a variety of bioactive phytochemicals of Ayurvedic herbs. Drug repurposing, reverse pharmacology, and polypharmacology in Ayurveda are areas in silico explorations that are needed to understand the rich repertoire of herbs, minerals, herbo-minerals, and assorted Ayurvedic formulations. This review emphasizes exploring the concept of Ayurveda with in silico approaches and the need for Ayurinformatics studies. It also provides an overview of in silico studies done on phytoconstituents of some important Ayurvedic plants, the utility of in silico studies in Ayurvedic phytoconstituents/formulations, limitations/challenges, and prospects of in silico studies in Ayurveda. This article discusses the convergence of in silico work, especially in the least explored field of Ayurveda. The focused coalesce of these two domains could present a predictive combinatorial platform to enhance translational research magnitude. In nutshell, it could provide new insight into an Ayurvedic drug discovery involving an in silico approach that could not only alleviate the process of traditional medicine research but also enhance its effectiveness in addressing health care.

Ayurvedic Management of Artavakshaya w.s.r. to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Case Report

Normal menstrual cycle is a crucial physiological phenomenon for maintaining woman’s health during reproductive years. Nowadays, menstrual disarrayed are the main reasons for gynecological consultations worldwide owed to faulty dietary habits and lifestyle. Oligomenorrhea is one among all menstrual disorders with a prevalence of 13.5% in general population and is characterized by irregular, inconsistent menstrual blood flow. In Ayurveda it can be correlated with Artavakshaya due to their strong symptom equality. Prevalence of Artavakshaya is rising in present gynecological practice which may leads to terrifying sequel of infertility. In modern science, only hormonal preparations are used as treatment strategies but only offer short term symptomatic management. Methodology: A female patient of 17 years of age came to OPD of National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, on 29/01/2022 with chief complaints of irregular (delayed) menses with prolonged interval of 4-5 months since last 1 year along with USG findings of Bilateral Polycystic Ovarian Disease with simple Ovarian cyst in left Ovary. In this case study, patient was treated with some oral Ayurvedic preparation for 2 consecutive cycles having Strotoshodhak, Kapha- Vatashamak, and Vataanulomaka properties. Result: Patient had her menstruation regularly with normal duration during and after treatment.

Contribution of Kashyapa Samhita or Vrddha Jivakiya Tantra in Panchakarma

Ayurveda is one of the most renowned traditional systems of medicine that has survived and flourished from ages till date. There are many avenues still to be explored by the researchers, practitioners and experts in the field who carry the responsibility of keeping the traditional systems of medicine alive and contributing to their growth in the future. Panchakarma is a fivefold treatment modality in Ayurveda used for detoxification of the body in preventive, curative as well as rejuvenative aspect. It includes Vamana (emesis), Virechana (purgation), Nirooha vasti (decoction enema), Nasya (instillation of medicine through nostrils), and Anuvasana vasti (oil enema). Kashyapa Samhita is a renowned book in Ayurveda especially in the field of Kaumarabritya. It elaborates Panchakarma procedures along with its indications, contraindications and doses for children. It contains many points explained in Brihat trayi along with some unique contributions in the field of Panchakarma. The present article reviews the original text and critically analyses the contribution of Kashyapa Samhita in the field of Panchakarma.

A Critical Review on Dooshivishari Agada: A Herbo Mineral Formulation

Dooshivisha (cumulative toxicity) is a type of Kritrima visha (artificial poison). It is a transformed state of other types of poison if not eliminated, get collected in small doses leads to this type of poisoning. It is a unique concept of Ayurveda and is the cause of the majority of the health issues in the present era. Acharyas have said different treatment principles for the management of Dooshivisha (cumulative toxicity). Dooshivishari agada is the formulation of choice for its treatment, which is a herbo-mineral formulation comprised of twelve ingredients that are taken in equal amounts for the preparation. Many Acharyas such as Sushruta, Vagbhata, and Bhavaprakasha have explained it in their classical texts. Along with Dooshivisha (cumulative toxicity), it can also be used in its complications, and also for the treatment of all types of poisoning and other associated signs and symptoms.

An Attempt to Decode Female Sexuality in the Heritage of Kamashastra Through Ayurveda - A Mystery

Ayurveda being a most ancient system of medicine has given a proper deserving position to women that is Stree, defining her as Apathyanam Moolam (the root cause of progeny). In Synch with this Kamashastra has portrayed women with esteem. Thus, stating the importance of female’s reproductive role in procreating and sustenance of human rays. Female sexual identity and conduct, as well as the physiological, psychological, social, cultural, political, and spiritual or religious components of sexual activity, all fall under the umbrella of human female sexuality, which covers a wide range of behavior activities. This sexuality is encountered and revealed through thoughts, desire, belief, fantasy, and relationship. The pursuit of sexual pleasure is a key motivating factor in sexual activity. Classical texts of Kamashastra have captured this sexual pleasure and portrayed them with impeccable accuracy in both genders providing an ample sexual motivation for sexual activity. This sexual activity is considered to attain fruition when the partner reaches the epitome of orgasm, among these partners we have given more importance to the female as she is a being of multiple sexual orgasms. Hence the main aim of this article is to understand and analyze the female sexual orgasm, and different approaches to attain it. Thus, an attempt is made to decode the mystery of female sexuality in the heritage of Kamasutra through Ayurveda.

Nimb (Azadirachta Indica): Validation of Classical Pharmacological Properties Through Reverse Pharmacology

Plants have been the main source of therapeutic agents in world’s most ancient system of medicine, the Ayurveda. Nimb (also known as Margosa tree) is one of the most commonly used plants in Ayurveda for the management of a large number of ailments. It is a member of the Meliaceae family, found commonly in India, Africa and America. Nimb has been used exclusively by mankind to treat various diseases since even before the availability of manuscripts that recorded the beginning of history. Nimb is well described in Charak Samhita, Sushrut Samhita, Ashtang Hridayam, Chikitsa grantha and Nighantus. It is having Laghu guna, Tikta kashaya rasa, Sheeta virya and Katu vipaka, due to which it has been considered as Kapha-pitta shamaka. Acharya Bhav Mishra considers it Tridosh Shamak. It is traditionally used in the treatment of various ailment i.e., Krimi, Kushtha, Jwara, Kandu, Shopha and many more. All the parts of the plant have been used in the preparation of therapeutic formulations. Nimb contains various bioactive compounds like Nimbinin and Nimbidin, due to which it shows antibiotic, antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, antihelmenthic, antifungal, diuretic, antihistaminic, nematicidal and spermicidal properties and other biological activities. Present paper is an effort to validate pharmacological properties of Nimb described in Ayurveda through reverse pharmacology.

Management of Pre-Operative Anxiety Through Ayurveda Drug- Case Series

Anxiety can be defined as unpleasant subjective sense due to dread over something unlikely to happen, such as standing at the point of death. It is mostly accompanied by physical symptoms i.e. restlessness, fatigue, problems in concentration, and muscular tension. So, in nutshell, Perioperative anxiety is vague, uneasy feeling, the source of which is often nonspecific and unknown to the individual but known to cause abnormal hemodynamics as a consequence of sympathetic, parasympathetic and endocrine stimulation. Thus causes more difficultly in general management during operative and postoperative period. This case series is comprised of three case of pre-operative anxiety which was posted for planned ano-rectal surgeries. At the time of hospital admission, level of anxiety was quite normal in all the patients, but by lapsing time and operative period come nearer they were feeling moderate to high level of anxiety due to various individual triggering reasons. For its management, Bramhyadi tablet (500 mg) was given in 2 doses- A night before OT, at morning on day of OT along with counselling. Here, preoperative anxiety was assessed by The Amsterdam preoperative anxiety and information scale, Hamilton anxiety rating, vital parameters and overall interview with patient in 5 phases: 1- At time of admission, 2- A night before OT, 3- At morning on day of OT, 4-1 hour after OT, 5-24 Hour after OT. Mental calmness, reduction in associated physical symptoms and stability in vital parameter were suggested positive influence of Bramhyadi tablet and counselling