Integrative management of critical COVID-19: A case report

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Integrative management of critical COVID-19: A case report”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that focuses on holistic health, emphasizing the balance between body, mind, and spirit. It utilizes various natural treatments, herbs, and lifestyle modifications to promote wellness and prevent disease. Its principles are applied in integrative therapies, such as those for COVID-19 management.

2) Table:
The term 'Table' in medical literature often refers to organized data, specifically related to clinical findings, treatment protocols, or outcomes of a study. Tables often summarize complex information, facilitating the easier interpretation of results and enhancing communication among practitioners and researchers in a clinical setting.

3) Medicine:
Medicine is the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses and injuries. It encompasses various approaches, including conventional Western medicine and complementary therapies like Ayurveda. Effective treatment often requires the integration of multiple medical disciplines to address complex health issues, such as those arising from COVID-19.

4) Water:
Water is essential for human life, serving as a critical component of bodily fluids. In both Ayurveda and conventional medicine, hydration is emphasized for maintaining health and supporting bodily functions. Adequate water intake is particularly important during illness to ensure proper hydration and facilitate metabolic processes within the body.

5) Rasa (Rasha):
In Ayurveda, 'Rasa' refers to the taste or flavor of a substance, which significantly influences the therapeutic properties of herbs and formulations. It plays a key role in the classification of foods and medicines, guiding practitioners in creating balanced diets and treatment regimens tailored to individual needs.

6) Thalassemia:
Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by reduced hemoglobin production. Individuals with thalassemia may experience severe anemia, requiring regular blood transfusions. The presence of this condition in patients can complicate treatments for illnesses like COVID-19, necessitating integrative approaches combining modern and traditional medical practices.

7) Vati:
Vati refers to a form of Ayurvedic medicine that is typically in the shape of pills or tablets. These formulations are often used to deliver concentrated doses of herbal ingredients, making it easier to administer herbal treatments efficiently and ensuring measurable therapeutic effects in various health conditions.

8) Shunthi (Sunthi, Sumthi, Shumthi):
Sunthi, or dried ginger (Zingiber officinale), is a commonly used herb in Ayurveda, known for its warming and digestive properties. It is effective in alleviating cough, nausea, and respiratory ailments, making it a frequent choice in formulations designed to treat conditions like COVID-19.

9) Kantakari (Kamtakari):
Kantakari, or Solanum xanthocarpum, is a medicinal herb used in Ayurveda for its effectiveness in treating respiratory ailments and cough. It helps reduce congestion and has expectorant properties, making it beneficial in formulations aimed at alleviating symptoms related to conditions such as COVID-19.

10) Haridra:
Haridra, or turmeric (Curcuma longa), is highly valued in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is often used in treatments to manage respiratory disorders, improving immunity and overall health. Its inclusion in preventive and therapeutic protocols exemplifies its relevance in integrative medicine.

11) Science (Scientific):
Science is the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation. In the context of healthcare, an evidence-based approach integrates scientific research with clinical practice, enhancing treatment modalities and improving patient outcomes in various health crises including pandemics.

12) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid in the body responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, and hormones. It plays a crucial role in immune defense against infections. In the context of thalassemia and diseases like COVID-19, understanding blood parameters can provide insights into the patient's health status and inform treatment approaches.

13) Katu:
Katu is an Ayurvedic term describing a taste that is spicy or pungent. It is associated with stimulating digestion and circulation, and it has thermogenic properties. Herbs with a Katu taste can play a role in enhancing metabolic function and alleviating respiratory conditions, contributing to effective treatment plans.

14) Samhita:
Samhita refers to collections or compilations of texts in Ayurveda, encapsulating its principles and practices. Important Samhitas, such as Charaka Samhita, serve as foundational resources guiding practitioners in diagnosis and treatment, integrating traditional wisdom with modern medical practices for comprehensive patient care.

15) Virya:
Virya denotes the potency or active principle of a substance in Ayurveda, indicating its effectiveness in producing a therapeutic effect. Understanding a herb's virya is crucial for practitioners to formulate remedies that balance the body's doshas and treat specific ailments effectively, particularly in integrative approaches.

16) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush is an acronym for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, representing India's traditional systems of medicine. The promotion of Ayush aims to provide holistic healthcare by integrating these ancient practices with modern medicine, enhancing health outcomes and public health strategies during health crises.

17) Guna:
Guna refers to the inherent qualities or properties of substances in Ayurveda. Each herb possesses distinct gunas, which determine its therapeutic application. Recognizing these qualities is vital for practitioners to create balanced treatment protocols targeted to individual patient needs and specific health conditions, including chronic diseases.

18) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
Yashtimadhu, or licorice, is recognized in Ayurveda for its soothing properties that benefit the throat and respiratory system. Often used in formulations targeting respiratory conditions, Yashtimadhu exemplifies the blend of traditional practices with modern approaches to enhance patient care for illnesses like COVID-19.

19) Disease:
Disease is a pathological condition of a bodily part, an organism, or system resulting from various factors, including infectious agents. Understanding the nature and mechanisms of diseases is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. In integrative medicine, the interplay between traditional and modern approaches is leveraged to address complex disease states.

20) Indian:
Indian refers to the cultural and geographic identity of individuals from India, which has a rich history in traditional medicines like Ayurveda. The integration of these practices into modern medical paradigms demonstrates India's significant contributions to holistic healthcare methodologies, particularly in the context of global health challenges.

21) Laghu:
Laghu signifies lightness in Ayurveda, often associated with properties of certain foods or medicines. Laghu substances are considered easy to digest and improve metabolic activity. Understanding this concept helps Ayurvedic practitioners customize diet and treatment regimens to balance the body's doshas effectively.

22) Tikta:
Tikta describes the bitter taste in Ayurvedic medicine, which is linked to detoxifying effects and stimulating digestion. Herbs with a Tikta taste can enhance liver function and promote the body’s natural healing processes, making them essential in formulations designed to address various health conditions.

23) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna refers to the hot or warming quality of substances in Ayurveda. It is potent in alleviating cold and damp conditions, promoting circulation, and enhancing digestion. Understanding Ushna properties is crucial in selecting appropriate herbs for treating respiratory illnesses and other conditions requiring warmth.

24) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi commonly refers to Y.G. Joshi, a prominent figure in the field of Ayurveda. Authors like Joshi contribute to the literature on integrating traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern medical practices, playing a vital role in advancing the field and enhancing its relevance in contemporary healthcare.

25) Pulse:
Pulse is a diagnostic tool used in Ayurveda to ascertain the health and balance of the body's doshas. Evaluating pulse characteristics provides practitioners insights into the patient's physical state and helps in formulating personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific health concerns.

26) Gold (Golden):
Gold, often mentioned in Ayurvedic contexts as 'Aukshar', signifies purity and the highest quality of healing practices or substances. It may also refer to gold-infused herbal preparations, which are believed to enhance potency and therapeutic effects in Ayurvedic medicine, contributing to patient recovery.

27) Varanasi (Varanashi):
Varanasi, a city in India, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and significance in Ayurveda. As a historical center for medical learning and traditional practices, Varanasi plays a pivotal role in educating practitioners and promoting Ayurvedic principles in the field of holistic health.

28) Vaidya:
Vaidya is a term for an Ayurvedic practitioner or physician specializing in diagnosing and treating illnesses. Vaidyas possess extensive knowledge of herbal remedies, treatments, and patient care, ultimately playing a crucial role in integrating Ayurvedic practices into broader healthcare approaches, especially during health emergencies.

29) Mitra:
Mitra can refer to 'friend' or 'companion' in Sanskrit, but in a healthcare context, it often denotes collaboration among various practitioners—be it Ayurveda or modern medicine. Such partnerships foster a holistic approach to patient care, ensuring comprehensive treatment plans that benefit overall health outcomes.

30) Agni:
Agni represents the digestive fire in Ayurveda, crucial for metabolizing food and sustaining health. It embodies the balance of digestion, energy production, and transformation within the body. Maintaining Agni is essential for overall well-being, particularly during illness when digestive functions may be impaired.

31) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding gained through experience and education in various fields, including medicine. In healthcare, a comprehensive approach involves integrating traditional wisdom with contemporary research, enhancing treatment efficacy and promoting holistic patient care amidst evolving challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

32) Snigdha:
Snigdha refers to the quality of being unctuous or oily in Ayurveda, which is attributed to substances that provide nourishment and lubrication. Ingredients with Snigdha properties are essential for balancing vata dosha and improving digestion, making it a vital aspect of dietary and medicinal formulations.

33) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha means dry or rough in Ayurvedic terminology. This quality can be applied to food, medicines, or body conditions. Ruksha substances are often recommended for balancing kapha dosha, improving digestion, and enhancing detoxification by reducing excess moisture in the body, particularly in respiratory treatments.

34) Patil:
Patil refers to V.C. Patil, likely an Ayurvedic practitioner or researcher whose contributions help advance the understanding of Ayurvedic principles in modern contexts. Collaboration among scholars like Patil enhances the evidence base for Ayurvedic practices, ensuring effective patient care through integrative approaches.

35) Ulcer:
Ulcers are lesions or sores that can develop on various body surfaces, commonly in the digestive tract. In Ayurveda, ulcers may be linked to imbalances in doshas and the digestive system. Understanding their nature helps practitioners devise appropriate treatments aimed at promoting healing and restoring balance.

36) Rules:
Rules refer to established guidelines or principles that govern practices within Ayurveda and modern medicine. These rules help practitioners create effective treatment protocols, ensuring that therapies align with patient needs and contribute to safe and effective healthcare delivery in clinical settings.

37) Fever:
Fever is a common medical sign characterized by an elevation in body temperature, often indicating an underlying infection or inflammatory response. In Ayurveda, understanding the root causes of fever is essential for managing it holistically, using methods that restore balance among the body's doshas.

38) Death:
Death is a significant endpoint in medicine that results from various diseases, including severe cases of COVID-19. Understanding mortality's underlying causes and associated factors, such as comorbidities like beta thalassemia, allows for improved treatment protocols and preventive strategies to enhance patient outcomes.

39) Cina:
China has been at the forefront of exploring integrated approaches to manage COVID-19, utilizing traditional Chinese medicine alongside modern healthcare practices. Observations from China highlight the importance of combining different medical philosophies, providing insights into managing pandemics through an integrative health model that can inform global strategies.

40) Drug:
A drug is a substance used to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease. In the context of COVID-19 and other illnesses, both conventional pharmaceuticals and herbal medicines serve as treatment options. Understanding the pharmacodynamics and therapeutic potentials of drugs is crucial in developing effective treatment plans for patients.

41) Viru:
Viru refers to viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. Understanding viral behavior and propagation is vital for developing effective treatments and vaccines. Integrative approaches that leverage traditional knowledge may complement modern virology's insights, enhancing overall health outcomes during outbreaks.

42) Kaphavataghna (Kaphavata-ghna):
Kaphavataghna describes treatments or substances that pacify or alleviate excess kapha dosha in Ayurveda. Such preparations assist in balancing moisture and improving respiratory function, often necessary for addressing symptoms of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, underscoring the importance of holistic approaches in treatment plans.

43) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is an Indian state known for its rich cultural heritage and contributions to Ayurveda. The integration of Ayurvedic practices into modern healthcare within Maharashtra exemplifies the state's role in promoting traditional medicine and addressing health challenges, especially evident in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

44) Puthiyedath:
Puthiyedath refers to the name of an author or researcher, indicating individuals who contribute to expanding the knowledge of Ayurvedic practices. Such authors help bridge the gap between traditional medicine and modern healthcare by conducting studies and disseminating findings relevant to integrative treatment methodologies.

45) Abhyantara (Abhyamtara):
Abhyantara in Ayurveda refers to the process of internal administration or oleation, aiming to balance doshas and enhance digestion. This concept is essential in treatment protocols, especially those focusing on systemic conditions, ensuring that internal health is addressed holistically to promote recovery.

46) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is a prominent Ayurvedic formulation comprising three fruits: Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. Known for its detoxifying and digestive benefits, Triphala is widely used to support gastrointestinal health and as a tonic. Its adaptogenic properties make it a valuable component in integrative healthcare regimens.

47) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is an ancient language of India and the language in which many foundational texts of Ayurveda and other Indian sciences are written. A grasp of Sanskrit is vital for practitioners to access traditional knowledge, ensuring the accurate interpretation of ancient Ayurvedic texts and principles.

48) Snehana:
Snehana refers to the Ayurvedic practice of oleation, either external or internal, aimed at pacifying vata dosha and promoting nourishment within the body. Snehana is essential in many Ayurvedic treatment protocols, particularly for addressing various conditions linked to dryness or deficiency in bodily tissues.

49) Koshtha (Kostha):
Koshtha refers to the digestive tract in Ayurveda, encompassing the importance of digestive health in maintaining overall wellness. Understanding an individual's koshtha type is crucial for practitioners to tailor dietary and treatment plans that align with digestion-related needs and challenges.

50) Kanthya (Kamthya):
Kanthya denotes qualities of throat-soothing properties associated with certain herbs in Ayurveda. Remedies classified as kanthya are crucial for managing respiratory conditions, promoting comfort, and ensuring effective healing processes in patients suffering from throat irritations or infections.

51) Quality:
Quality refers to the characteristics or attributes of a substance or intervention impacting its effectiveness. In Ayurveda, understanding the quality of herbs, formulations, and treatment methodologies is vital for personalizing therapies that yield optimal health outcomes based on individual patient presentations.

52) Girija (Giri-ja):
Girija may refer to P.L.T. Girija, who is likely an Ayurvedic practitioner or scholar contributing to the literature on Ayurvedic treatments. Such figures play a crucial role in advancing the understanding and application of Ayurvedic principles within modern healthcare frameworks, particularly in integrative approaches.

53) Dushya (Dusya):
Dushya indicates the substances or elements in the body that get affected or disturbed during a disease process according to Ayurvedic philosophy. Recognizing the dushya helps practitioners devise targeted treatment strategies to restore balance and promote healing in afflicted individuals.

54) Shukla (Sukla):
Shukla refers to an individual, possibly a researcher, known for contributions in the field of Ayurveda or traditional medicine. Such scholars facilitate understanding the integration of ancient practices with modern medical science, emphasizing the value of traditional systems in contemporary healthcare solutions.

55) Amisa (Amisha):
Amisha appears to refer to an individual involved in the Ayurvedic practice or research. Significant contributions from people with this name to the field enhance the understanding and application of Ayurvedic principles and their integration into broader health care practices.

56) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by its cold, heavy, and moist qualities. It represents earth and water elements within the body and plays a critical role in structuring and maintaining bodily functions. Balancing kapha is essential for maintaining overall health and preventing illness.

57) Sutra:
Sutra refers to aphorisms or concise statements that encapsulate principles and teachings within Ayurveda and Hindu philosophy. Key texts are organized into sutras, providing essential guidelines for practitioners and establishing cohesive frameworks for understanding health, disease, and treatment methodologies.

58) Mukta:
Mukta translates to 'liberated' or 'free' in Sanskrit and could signify a stressed or emphasized concept in Ayurveda. It potentially conveys the idea of health liberation through integrating traditional and modern practices, highlighting the importance of comprehensive and holistic health strategies.

59) India:
India serves as the birthplace of Ayurveda, with a rich history of traditional medicine that emphasizes holistic health and wellness. The resurgence of Ayurvedic practices in modern health care illustrates India's pivotal role in global health movements and integrative medicine approaches adapted to contemporary health challenges.

60) Glass:
In a medical context, 'glass' could refer to diagnostic imaging, such as CT scanning, which employs glass-like materials in technology. Furthermore, 'glass' may symbolize transparency in health practices, advocating for open communication between traditional and modern methodologies during patient care and management.

61) Civan:
Sivan may refer to N. Sivan, an author or contributor in the field of Ayurveda. Contributions from individuals like Sivan help consolidate knowledge about integrating traditional healing approaches with modern practices, ultimately enhancing the efficacy of healthcare solutions offered to patients.

62) Beta:
Beta refers to the beta thalassemia condition, a blood disorder leading to reduced hemoglobin production. Individuals with beta thalassemia may experience complications during diseases like COVID-19, highlighting the need for tailored treatment strategies that consider comorbidities when managing patients' health effectively.

63) Ter:
Ther could refer to traditional healing practices and methodologies aimed at restoring health and balance within the patient through holistic means. It emphasizes the importance of contextually appropriate treatments that honor both traditional wisdom and modern medical insights for comprehensive care.

64) Pur:
Poor describes a condition of lacking in resources or health status in the context of patients facing severe illnesses. Understanding socio-economic factors that contribute to poor health outcomes helps practitioners develop effective strategies to mitigate disparities in health care access and treatment outcomes.

65) Male:
Male refers to the gender of the patient in medical contexts. Recognizing gender-specific health needs is crucial for providing effective treatments, as physiological differences may influence the manifestation and management of diseases. Tailoring healthcare solutions to gender considerations enhances overall patient care.

66) Chan:
Chan may refer to K.K.H. Chan, a contributor to research or practices in healthcare. Contributions from individuals like Chan greatly enrich the collective knowledge base, promoting integrative methodologies that bridge traditional practices with contemporary medical frameworks in patient care.

67) Life:
Life encompasses the biological and existential aspects of human existence. In healthcare, preserving and enhancing quality of life is a primary goal. This notion underpins treatments rooted in Ayurveda, aiming to not just treat diseases but to support overall wellness and resilience against health challenges.

68) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, known as Guduchi, is an important herb in Ayurveda recognized for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. It is widely used in treatments aimed at enhancing bodily defenses, particularly against infections, and plays a significant role in integrative health therapies.

69) Solanum xanthocarpum:
Solanum xanthocarpum, or Kantakari, is an Ayurvedic herb that offers therapeutic benefits for respiratory ailments, coughs, and bronchial issues. This plant helps alleviate respiratory distress, making it a valuable ingredient in formulations targeting symptoms associated with diseases like COVID-19.

70) Zingiber officinale:
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is a well-regarded herb in Ayurveda for its warming, digestive, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often used in treatments related to respiratory conditions, showcasing its relevance to integrative health approaches aimed at alleviating symptoms in various illnesses.

71) Western India:
Western India is a region known for its rich cultural traditions and practices, including Ayurveda. The integration of traditional Ayurvedic medicine within healthcare systems in regions like Maharashtra underscores the adaptability of these practices in addressing contemporary health challenges, such as COVID-19.

72) Peer review:
Peer review is a crucial process in academic publishing that involves evaluating the quality and validity of research by experts in the field. It ensures rigorous standards in scientific literature, enhancing the credibility of studies related to health management and integrations of traditional medicines.

73) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response to harmful stimuli, including pathogens, resulting in symptoms like redness, swelling, and pain. Managing inflammation is essential during infections like COVID-19, underscoring the need for strategies that balance the immune response while seeking to restore homeostasis within the body.

74) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha is one of the three fundamental energies in Ayurveda, characterized by stability and moisture. Imbalances in kapha can lead to respiratory issues and congestion, making it essential to understand and address these dosha imbalances in treatment regimens, particularly for respiratory infections.

75) Ashtavidha (Astavidha, Ashtan-vidha):
Ashtavidha, meaning 'eight-fold' in Sanskrit, refers to a comprehensive diagnostic approach in Ayurveda that assesses a patient's health through various methods, including pulse diagnosis and observation of physiological symptoms. This thoroughness informs treatment decisions and individualizes care strategies based on holistic assessments.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 108]