Ayurvedic management of mdr tuberculosis; a case study
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Ayurvedic management of mdr tuberculosis; a case study
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Dr. A. P. Rana and Dr. Nilesh Salve
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Ayurvedic management of mdr tuberculosis; a case study
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201816-13269
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Summary of article contents:
1. Introduction
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease predominantly caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, most often affecting the lungs but capable of impacting other body areas. The primary symptoms of active TB include a persistent cough with blood-stained sputum, fever, night sweats, and significant weight loss. In Ayurveda, TB aligns with the condition referred to as "Rajayakshma." The treatment focuses on correcting the imbalances in the body's seven tissues, or "saptadhatu," and addressing the consequent depletion of vitality, known as "ojakshaya." While modern medicine employs anti-tuberculosis therapies, the increasing occurrence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) underscores the need for alternative treatment strategies.
2. Ayurvedic Management of Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis
MDR TB occurs when the TB bacteria develop resistance to at least two of the most potent first-line anti-TB medications, isoniazid and rifampin. Ineffective treatment protocols, such as using incorrect medications or inconsistent use, can exacerbate this resistance. The Ayurvedic approach considers MDR TB as Rajayakshma, focusing on comprehensive treatment methodologies rather than just targeting the disease. This perspective facilitates a more holistic healing process, aiming to restore health and strengthen the body's resilience against the infection.
3. Case Study Overview
The case study presents a 14-year-old female patient diagnosed with MDR TB, characterized by symptoms such as breathlessness, lethargy, anorexia, and significant fatigue. Despite undergoing standard anti-tubercular treatment, the patient exhibited no improvement, leading to a transition to Ayurvedic therapies. The Ayurvedic treatments administered included various medicinal formulations, such as Shwas Kas Chintamani Rasa and Rajmrugank Rasa, along with panchakarma treatments. Within a few weeks, the patient's symptoms began to improve, culminating in her regained health and return to daily activities after a yearlong follow-up.
4. Mechanisms of Ayurvedic Treatment
Ayurvedic treatment emphasizes restoring balance to the saptadhatu and liberating the patient from the debilitating effects of Rajayakshma. The chosen herbal medications aim to rejuvenate the body, enhance immunity, and improve overall vitality. Panchakarma therapies, such as external oil massages (abhyanga), further assist in detoxifying the body and supporting the recovery process. The clinical outcomes demonstrated in the case indicate that with proper Ayurvedic intervention, patients suffering from MDR TB can experience significant relief and improvement in quality of life.
5. Conclusion
This case study reinforces the importance of integrating Ayurvedic principles in the management of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. Understanding the underlying "saptadhatu daurbalya" and "samprapti" associated with the disease provides a foundation for effective treatment. With proper Ayurvedic interventions complemented by panchakarma practices, patients can achieve considerable recovery from their symptoms. The positive outcomes in this case exemplify the potential benefits of utilizing holistic healing approaches alongside modern medical treatments for tuberculosis and similar conditions.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the case study?
The case study focuses on the Ayurvedic management of a patient with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) and the positive outcomes resulting from Ayurvedic interventions.
What symptoms did the 14-year-old patient experience?
The patient experienced breathlessness, fatigability, lethargy, anorexia, insomnia, cachexia, and air hunger, indicating severe health issues related to MDR TB.
How did the patient's previous allopathic treatment fare?
The patient’s prior anti-tubercular treatment did not provide relief, leading to severity of symptoms and the development of medication resistance.
What Ayurvedic treatments were provided to the patient?
Ayurvedic treatments included various herbal medicines such as Jaimangal ras and Panchakarma therapies, which were administered to alleviate symptoms and improve the patient’s health.
What improvements did the patient show during Ayurvedic treatment?
After treatment, the patient showed significant symptom relief, gained weight, increased appetite, and no longer required oxygen support, indicating a better health condition.
What does the study conclude about Ayurvedic treatment for MDR TB?
The study concludes that Ayurvedic treatment offers a viable approach for managing MDR TB, emphasizing the importance of considering Sapta dhatu daurbalya in treatment strategies.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic management of mdr tuberculosis; a case study”. 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) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious infection primarily affecting the lungs, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It has classical symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. The disease has evolved into multidrug-resistant forms due to improper treatments, necessitating comprehensive and prolonged management approaches.
2) Rasa (Rasha):
In Ayurveda, 'Rasa' refers to the therapeutic properties of medicinal substances or the essence extracted from herbs, minerals, or animal sources. Rasa plays a critical role in the formulation of Ayurvedic medicines, contributing to their efficacy in treating various ailments, including complex diseases like tuberculosis.
3) Study (Studying):
The term 'study' in this context refers to the systematic examination and evaluation of a particular case, focusing on the patient's condition and the Ayurvedic treatment provided. This study illustrates the impact of Ayurvedic medicine on the health outcomes of a patient suffering from multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.
4) Drug:
Drugs in Ayurveda encompass a wide array of herbal, mineral, and animal-derived substances used for therapeutic purposes. The effective use of these drugs aims to achieve balance and rectify vitiated conditions within the body, crucial for managing chronic diseases like tuberculosis.
5) Rajayakshma (Rajan-yakshma, Rajayaksma):
'Raja-yaksma' denotes tuberculosis in Ayurvedic terms, reflecting its classification within traditional medicine. Recognizing it as such helps practitioners apply specific Ayurvedic methodologies to address the disease effectively, emphasizing a targeted approach in management.
6) Rana:
Dr. A. P. Rana is one of the authors of the study, contributing his expertise in Ayurveda to explore the management of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. As an Assistant Professor, his involvement signifies an academic and clinical perspective on integrating traditional medicine with modern health challenges.
7) Line:
In the context of treatment, 'line' refers to a systematic approach or protocol followed to manage a disease. The Ayurvedic management mentioned follows a specific line aimed at balancing the body using herbal remedies and therapeutic procedures tailored to the patient's condition.
8) Samprapti:
'Samprapti' is a crucial Ayurvedic concept that describes the pathogenesis or the processes leading to the development of diseases. Understanding samprapti is essential for Ayurvedic clinicians to formulate effective treatment strategies that target the underlying causes of ailments like tuberculosis.
9) Saptadhatu (Sapta-dhatu, Saptan-dhatu):
'Sapta-dhatu' translates to the ‘seven tissues’ of the body in Ayurveda, foundational for maintaining health. Understanding the condition of these dhatus is essential in treating ailments like tuberculosis, as their integrity directly influences overall wellness and disease resistance.
10) Gandhaka (Gamdhaka):
'Gandhaka' (sulfur) is used in Ayurvedic formulations for its therapeutic properties, especially in treating respiratory disorders. Its inclusion in treatment regimens for tuberculosis reflects its role in detoxification, enhancing the body's ability to combat infections and improve overall health.
11) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
'Abhyanga' refers to a form of oil massage in Ayurveda, which is believed to nourish and strengthen the body while alleviating fatigue and tension. It plays a role in holistic treatment by improving circulation and facilitating the healing process in conditions like tuberculosis.
12) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses both modern pharmaceutical treatments and traditional herbal remedies. In the Ayurvedic context, medicines are formulated to harmonize bodily functions and address specific imbalances, crucial for managing chronic conditions such as multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.
13) Bhaishajya (Bhaisajya):
'Bhaishajya' refers to therapeutic drugs and treatment practices in Ayurveda. The aspect of bhaishajya involves selecting the right medicines tailored to the patient's constitution and condition, which is a fundamental focus in managing tuberculosis effectively.
14) Daurbalya:
'Daurbalya' signifies physical weakness or debility, a common condition observed in tuberculosis patients. Ayurvedic treatments aim to restore strength and vitality in patients experiencing daurbalya by focusing on nutrition, herbal remedies, and therapeutic interventions to support recovery.
15) Aushadhi (Ausadhi, Aushadhin, Ausadhin):
'Aushadhi' refers to medicinal herbs or drugs in Ayurveda. The effectiveness of aushadhi involves understanding their properties and therapeutic uses, essential for designing treatment plans to combat ailments, including those resistant to modern interventions like tuberculosis.
16) Vatsanabha (Vatsa-nabha):
'Vatsanabha' is a potent Ayurvedic herb used in formulations for its diverse medicinal properties. Its effectiveness in treating respiratory diseases showcases the importance of incorporating traditional herbs in managing complex conditions such as multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.
17) Discussion:
The discussion section of the study provides insights into the outcomes, effectiveness, and considerations of the Ayurvedic treatment for the patient. It allows for a comprehensive exploration of the results and the implications of integrating traditional and modern medicine in healthcare.
18) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotics are medications used to treat bacterial infections, including tuberculosis. However, their overuse can lead to drug resistance. This case underlines the importance of alternative treatments, such as Ayurvedic approaches, especially when conventional antibiotics prove ineffective against drug-resistant forms of TB.
19) Suffering:
Suffering encompasses the physical, emotional, and psychological distress experienced by patients with chronic diseases like tuberculosis. Understanding the comprehensive nature of suffering is crucial for developing holistic treatment plans that address not just the illness but the patient's overall well-being.
20) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine based on holistic principles encompassing diet, lifestyle, and herbal treatments. It emphasizes balance within the body and addresses root causes of diseases, providing a complementary approach to modern treatments for conditions like tuberculosis.
21) Vitiation (Vitiated):
'Vitiation' indicates the disruption of natural balance in the body, leading to disease. Understanding how vitiation occurs is critical in Ayurvedic practice to tailor treatments that restore harmony and promote health, particularly in chronic conditions like tuberculosis.
22) Abhraka:
'Abhraka' (mica) is used in Ayurvedic treatments for its properties beneficial in respiratory issues. Its application in managing tuberculosis illustrates the integration of mineral-based therapies alongside herbal compounds, highlighting the diverse approaches within Ayurveda to address complex health challenges.
23) Trikatu (Tri-katu):
'Trikatu' is a traditional Ayurvedic compound made of three spices: black pepper, long pepper, and ginger, known for enhancing digestion and metabolism. Its use in tuberculosis treatment underscores its role in improving respiratory function and boosting overall immunity.
24) Shankha (Sankha, Samkha, Shamkha):
'Shankha' refers to conch shell powder used in certain Ayurvedic formulations. Its inclusion reflects the integration of various natural substances in treatment protocols, emphasizing Ayurveda's holistic approach in managing ailments while enhancing efficacy and reducing side effects.
25) Tankana (Tamkana):
'Tankana', often referring to borax, plays a role in Ayurvedic formulations for its therapeutic properties. It's utilized to balance bodily functions and enhance the overall effectiveness of medicines aimed at treating conditions like tuberculosis, highlighting the holistic nature of Ayurvedic treatments.
26) Disease:
Disease represents the pathological state affecting the function of body systems. In the context of tuberculosis and other illnesses, it's essential to understand both the physiological manifestations and the underlying imbalances contributing to disease onset and progression.
27) Parada:
'Parada' or mercury is traditionally used in Ayurveda for its transformative properties in medicinal preparations. Its application in certain formulations for serious conditions like tuberculosis reflects Ayurveda's diverse approach and the focus on powerful substances to facilitate healing.
28) Kalash:
'Kalash' refers to a pot or vessel, often used in the context of Ayurvedic preparations. The term may signify the methodical approach to combining elements for creating effective medicines, emphasizing the importance of traditional formulations in restoring health.
29) Tamra:
'Tamra' refers to copper and is utilized in Ayurvedic medicines for its beneficial properties. It plays a role in enhancing immunity and overall health, particularly relevant in managing chronic diseases like tuberculosis, where systemic support is crucial.
30) Mukta:
'Mukta' denotes pearls, which are incorporated as a component in Ayurvedic formulations. Pearls are believed to have rejuvenating properties, contributing to the overall health and vitality of patients suffering from conditions like tuberculosis by fortifying the body.
31) Bahya:
'Bahya' indicates external treatments in Ayurveda. This approach recognizes the importance of external therapies such as abhyanga in conjunction with internal medicinal formulations to comprehensively address the imbalances causing diseases like tuberculosis.
32) Balya:
'Balya' refers to treatments designed to increase strength and vitality. This concept is significant in managing conditions like tuberculosis, focusing on restoring the patient's energy levels and physical resilience through a combination of diet, lifestyle, and herb-based therapies.
33) Loha:
'Loha' refers to iron, vital in Ayurvedic formulations for its role in strengthening the body. Its use underlines the significance of addressing deficiencies often seen in chronic illnesses like tuberculosis, thereby improving overall health and wellness.
34) Bala:
'Bala' means strength or vigor and is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda concerning treatment approaches. Restoring stamina is crucial for patients suffering from debilitating conditions such as tuberculosis, where loss of strength exacerbates health decline.
35) Bhringaraja (Bhrngaraja, Bhringa-raja, Bhrimgaraja):
'Bhringaraja' is an Ayurvedic herb regarded for its restorative properties. Known for its ability to enhance vitality and combat weakness, its use in treatment underscores Ayurveda's focus on holistic healing, particularly beneficial for tuberculosis patients experiencing daurbalya.
36) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
'Yashtimadhu' (licorice) is a sweet herb used for its soothing and medicinal properties, especially in respiratory conditions. Its application in managing tuberculosis aligns with Ayurveda's approach of utilizing atisthathvas to enhance the healing process of respiratory systems and promote recovery.
37) Shatavari (Satavari):
'Shatavari' is a revered Ayurvedic herb known for its nourishing properties and is particularly effective in supporting overall health. Its role in managing conditions like tuberculosis hinges on its ability to enhance vitality, making it a valuable component in treatments aimed at recovery.
38) Kantakari (Kamtakari):
'Kantakari' is an Ayurvedic herb that supports respiratory health and aids in managing cough. Its properties are beneficial in treating tuberculosis, addressing specific symptoms while also contributing to the overall healing process within Ayurvedic frameworks.
39) Amlapitta (Amla-pitta):
Amlapitta, or acidity, signifies a condition that affects digestion. Its mention in the study points to the holistic assessment of the patient’s health, as Ayurvedic treatment often encompasses resolving digestive issues to foster better absorption of medicines and overall recovery.
40) Kharpara:
'Kharpara' refers to a specific mineral or compound used in Ayurvedic medicine, known for its beneficial properties. The strategic use of kharpara highlights Ayurveda's incorporation of diverse materials aimed at enhancing treatment efficacy and addressing complex health issues.
41) Dhattura:
'Dhattura' (Datura) is used in Ayurvedic preparations for its psychoactive properties. Though its use must be controlled, it contributes to managing serious health conditions, including those related to tuberculosis, emphasizing the multifaceted approach taken in traditional medicine.
42) Adhikara:
'Adhikara' relates to a category or authority in medicine, reflecting the different levels of expertise in treatment approaches. In Ayurveda, this signifies the need for proficient understanding in administering complex treatments for conditions like tuberculosis.
43) Vaidurya:
'Vaidurya' (cat's eye stone) is mentioned as a mineral component of various Ayurvedic formulations acknowledging its relevance in traditional systems for its supposed benefits in enhancing health, particularly in the context of chronic diseases.
44) Snehana:
'Snehana' refers to oil-based therapies used in Ayurveda for nourishment and detoxification, serving as an introductory step in many treatments. Its application assists in alleviating symptoms of diseases like tuberculosis by promoting overall bodily balance.
45) Manikya:
'Manikya' (ruby) represents a precious stone with supposed healing properties. Its metaphorical or literal representation in Ayurvedic formulations reflects the incorporation of various elements believed to generally support and enhance the treatment of serious health conditions.
46) Pravala:
'Pravala' typically refers to coral used in Ayurveda primarily for its mineral content and traditional healing properties. Its inclusion in formulas for treating conditions like tuberculosis showcases the value placed on various natural substances within Ayurvedic practices.
47) Gomeda (Go-meda):
'Gomeda' (hessonite) is a gemstone traditionally thought to possess healing properties. In Ayurvedic practices, it symbolizes the holistic approach where therapeutic properties are attributed to minerals and stones, reflecting the diverse methodologies in treating chronic ailments.
48) Vimala:
'Vimala' represents purity or clarity often associated with herbs or formulations. In treating illness, a focus on purity emphasizes the importance of utilizing clean, high-quality ingredients in medications for optimal effectiveness in conditions like tuberculosis.
49) Kshaya (Ksaya):
'Kshaya' translates to deficiency, loss, or consumption. This concept is especially relevant in tuberculosis, where the disease leads to significant weight loss and wasting. Ayurvedic treatments focus on reversing kshaya to restore health and vitality.
50) Tapya:
'Tapya' indicates heating or warming substances used in Ayurvedic practice. Its application may refer to the incorporation of warm therapies to stimulate bodily functions, essential in combating diseases such as tuberculosis by enhancing circulation and metabolism.
51) Patra:
'Patra' refers to various leaves or plant components used in Ayurvedic preparations. The inclusion of patra highlights the emphasis on natural elements in devising effective treatments tailored to the specific needs of patients dealing with complex health issues like tuberculosis.
52) Hikka:
'Hikka' denotes a type of cough or respiratory distress, common in tuberculosis patients. Understanding hikka is crucial in providing suitable therapeutic interventions to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals facing respiratory diseases.
53) Dhatu:
'Dhatu' refers to the fundamental tissues that play a critical role in maintaining health in Ayurvedic medicine. The health and vitality of dhatus are essential for overall well-being and for effectively managing chronic conditions such as tuberculosis.
54) Vanga (Vamga):
'Vanga' (tin) is included in certain Ayurvedic medicines due to its purported health benefits. Its relevance underscores the use of diverse materials in traditional medicine aimed at addressing complex health challenges, including tuberculosis.
55) Bilva (Vilva):
'Bilva' is a sacred tree in Ayurveda known for its medicinal properties. Its application in treatments reflects the diversity of natural ingredients utilized to support healing in chronic diseases, including tuberculosis, showcasing Ayurveda's holistic approach.
56) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom of tuberculosis, indicating an underlying infection or illness. Managing fever is paramount in Ayurvedic practice, which seeks to restore balance through herbal treatments and lifestyle adjustments, highlighting the comprehensive nature of patient care.
57) Blood:
'Blood' relates to the physiological body fluid critical for numerous functions. In the context of tuberculosis, understanding blood parameters helps tailor treatments focusing on revitalizing the body, essential for combating the systemic effects of the disease.
58) Nila:
'Neela' (blue) is often associated with certain gemstones or minerals in Ayurvedic context. It points to the belief in the healing properties of these elements, emphasizing the integration of traditional knowledge into managing health conditions like tuberculosis.
59) Sweating (Sweat):
'Sweat' represents one of the body's mechanisms for regulating temperature and excreting toxins. Observing sweating patterns can provide insights into a patient's condition, particularly in tuberculosis, where excessive sweating may signify the disease's progression or response to treatment.
60) Roga:
'Roga' refers to disease in general within the Ayurvedic framework. This term signifies significant considerations for practitioners, aiming to understand diseases holistically and tailor treatments that address both symptoms and root causes.
61) Raja:
'Raja' translates to ‘king’ but, in the context of 'rajayakshma' (tuberculosis), refers to the severe manifestation of the disease, emphasizing the need for comprehensive treatment approaches to appropriately manage its complexities and effects on health.
62) Naga (Nag):
'Naga' (copper) is used in some Ayurvedic formulations for its medicinal properties. Its mention reflects Ayurveda's multifaceted approach to healing through various minerals known to contribute positively to health, particularly in chronic conditions like tuberculosis.
63) Life:
'Life' in Ayurveda is viewed as a dynamic interplay of physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. Emphasizing life quality, traditional practices aim to rejuvenate and restore health, critical for patients to reclaim wellness amidst chronic diseases such as tuberculosis.
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