Vatagajendrasingh rasa - in the management of amavata: a review
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Vatagajendrasingh rasa - in the management of amavata: a review
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
*Mahakal Nilesh Sharad
Assistant Professor, Department of Rasashastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, Gurudev Ayurved College, Gurukunj Ashram, Amravati, Maharashtra
Gulhane Harshad
Assistant Professor, Department of Kayachikitsa, MUP’s Ayurved College, Hospital and Research Center, Risod, Maharashtra
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Vatagajendrasingh rasa - in the management of amavata: a review
Year: 2016
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
1) Introduction
The article discusses the effectiveness of Vatagajendrasingh Rasa, an Ayurvedic herbomineral formulation, in managing Amavata, commonly correlated with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). This chronic condition is characterized by significant joint pain, swelling, and systemic complications, largely due to the presence of Ama (toxic byproducts of incomplete digestion) and vitiation of Vata, one of the three constitutional principles in Ayurveda. The authors argue that modern treatments for RA, while available, often lead to inconsistent outcomes, necessitating the exploration of traditional Ayurvedic remedies that potentially offer safer and more effective alternatives.
2) Role of Ama and Pathogenesis of Amavata
A critical aspect of understanding Amavata lies in the formation and accumulation of Ama within the body's physiological channels. This accumulation leads to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness, which are exacerbated by poor digestive health and lifestyle factors. The article elaborates on how Vatagajendrasingh Rasa, containing ingredients recognized for their Amapachana (digestion of Ama) properties, aims to disrupt this disease's progression by enhancing digestion and mitigating symptoms. The formulation's action aligns with Ayurvedic principles, focusing on correcting imbalances and restoring overall health.
3) Mechanisms of Action of Vatagajendrasingh Rasa
The formulation's effectiveness is attributed to its diverse ingredients, each contributing unique therapeutic properties. For instance, Abhraka Bhasma is recognized for enhancing overall vitality and digestion, while Tamra Bhasma is noted for its ability to regulate metabolic processes and alleviate symptoms related to Ama accumulation. Additionally, components like Vatsanabha help relieve joint stiffness and inflammation, making the formulation multifaceted in addressing chronic symptoms associated with Amavata. This holistic approach of the formulation illustrates the intricate balance of various elements to correct the pathophysiological state of the disease.
4) Conclusion
In conclusion, Vatagajendrasingh Rasa represents a promising intervention in the management of Amavata by addressing root causes through digestion enhancement, detoxification, and symptom relief. The study emphasizes the need for further research to validate these findings and promote the integration of Ayurvedic practices with modern medical approaches, particularly as many patients continue to seek effective management strategies for chronic conditions like RA. The formulation's comprehensive action showcases the potential benefits of traditional medicine in contemporary healthcare settings.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Vatagajendrasingh Rasa used for in Ayurveda?
Vatagajendrasingh Rasa is an Ayurvedic herbomineral formulation used primarily for managing Amavata, which correlates with rheumatoid arthritis. It is effective in alleviating symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, and related complications.
What are the key ingredients of Vatagajendrasingh Rasa?
The main ingredients of Vatagajendrasingh Rasa include Kajjali, Abhraka Bhasma, Loha Bhasma, Naga Bhasma, and Shuddha Vatsanabha, among others. These components work synergistically to address the underlying issues of Amavata.
How does Vatagajendrasingh Rasa act on Amavata?
Vatagajendrasingh Rasa functions by breaking the pathogenesis of Amavata through Agnideepana (increasing appetite), Amapachana (aiding digestion), and managing symptoms like joint pain and stiffness effectively.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Vatagajendrasingh rasa - in the management of amavata: a review”. 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) Amavata (Ama-vata):
Amavata is a disease correlated with rheumatoid arthritis in modern medicine. It is characterized by joint pain (Sandhishoola), joint swelling (Sandhishotha), heaviness (Gaurava), and fever (Jwara). Both 'Ama' (indigested end product of food) and 'Vata' (a Dosha) are critical in its development.
2) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to ash obtained through the calcination of minerals and metals used in Ayurvedic medicine. Tamra Bhasma, Loha Bhasma, and Abhraka Bhasma are examples mentioned. Bhasma preparations like these are utilized for their reputed therapeutic properties.
3) Disease:
Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis) is described as a chronic, incurable disease with complications and significant morbidity. In Ayurvedic texts, it is seen as a challenge due to its chronic nature and the persistent progression that cripples patients.
4) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa, another term for mercury or Parada in Ayurveda, is a critical component in many formulations, including Vatagajendrasingh Rasa. It's combined with sulfur to form Kajjali, enhancing the efficacy and potency of the medicine through Yogavahitwa (enhancing bioavailability).
5) Drug:
In the management of Amavata, various Ayurvedic and modern drugs are used. Herbomineral formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa, which include ingredients such as Abhraka Bhasma and Vatsanabha, offer significant therapeutic benefits compared to conventional drugs, which are often palliative.
6) Vatsanabha (Vatsa-nabha):
Vatsanabha, known for its potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, is a crucial ingredient in the Ayurvedic treatment of Amavata. Despite being a potent vegetable poison, when purified (Shuddha) and used correctly, it provides significant relief from joint inflammation and pain.
7) Loha:
Loha, used in the form of Loha Bhasma, is beneficial in treating conditions related to Amavata. In chronic cases, it helps in nourishing the Rakta (blood) and Mamsa (muscle) Dhatus and alleviates symptoms like joint pain, muscle degeneration, and overall debility.
8) Ratti:
Ratti is a traditional unit of measurement used in Ayurveda. For example, in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa, ingredients like Tamra Bhasma are measured in Ratti. The dose of the medicine is commonly calculated in this unit to ensure precise administration.
9) Medicine:
In Ayurveda, the management of diseases like Amavata involves multifaceted treatment approaches including medicines like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa. These formulations aim to break the pathogenesis (Samprapti) and manage symptoms through various pharmacological actions.
10) Jirna:
Jirna, or chronic state, refers to the advanced stage of diseases like Amavata. It involves prolonged symptoms and systemic degenerative changes. Herbomineral formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa are particularly effective in managing Jirna Amavata by addressing deep-seated doshic imbalances.
11) Abhraka:
Abhraka refers to mica and its Bhasma (calcined form) is used in Ayurvedic formulations. Abhraka Bhasma is noted for properties such as Deepana (appetizer), Balya (strengthening), and Ruchida (increasing taste), making it useful for treating chronic Amavata.
12) Kajjali:
Kajjali, a black powder formed by triturating mercury (Parada) and sulfur (Gandhaka), enhances the potency and efficacy of Ayurvedic formulations. It acts as a catalyst, improving the bioavailability and therapeutic action of the ingredients it is combined with.
13) Shuddha (Suddha):
Shuddha refers to the purified form of substances used in Ayurvedic formulations. For example, Shuddha Vatsanabha (purified Aconite) and Shuddha Gandhaka (purified sulfur) are used in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa to ensure safety and enhance therapeutic efficacy.
14) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the seven bodily tissues in Ayurveda: Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscles), Meda (fat), Asthi (bones), Majja (bone marrow), and Shukra (reproductive tissue). Degeneration of Dhatus is observed in chronic conditions like Jirna Amavata and needs therapeutic intervention.
15) Abhrakabhasma (Abhraka-bhasma):
Abhraka Bhasma is a calcined preparation of mica, used as a tonic in Ayurveda for its deepana (appetizer), balya (strengthening), and ruchida (taste enhancing) properties. It supports treatment in chronic Amavata by correcting Agnivikar (digestive disorders) and associated symptoms.
16) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a common symptom in Amavata, manifested as joint swelling and pain. Ayurvedic formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa aim to reduce inflammation (Shotha) through ingredients like Vatsanabha (Aconite) and Saindhava Lavana (Rock salt).
17) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala, a combination of three fruits: Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), and Bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica), is renowned for its deepana (appetizer) and digestive properties. It is incorporated in formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa to enhance therapeutic effectiveness.
18) Tamra:
Tamra refers to copper, and its Bhasma (calcined ash) is used in Ayurveda. Tamra Bhasma is incorporated in formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa for its roles in deepana (appetizer), lekhana (scraping action), and overall Agnideepana (digestive fire stimulation) properties.
19) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna translates to 'hot' and relates to the virya (potency) of certain Ayurvedic medicines, indicating their heating effect. Ingredients such as Tamra Bhasma and Vatsanabha have usna virya that help in pacifying Kapha and Vata doshas, providing relief in Amavata.
20) Naga (Nag):
Naga denotes lead, and its Bhasma (calcined ash) is used in Ayurvedic therapeutics. Naga Bhasma in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa serves to mitigate symptoms associated with Jirna Amavata, particularly those affecting the Asthi (bones) and Majja Dhatu (bone marrow).
21) Rheumatoid arthritis:
Rheumatoid arthritis, the modern medical equivalent of Amavata, is an autoimmune disorder causing persistent joint inflammation, cartilage damage, and bone erosion. The Ayurvedic approach includes using formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa to manage symptoms and restore doshic balance.
22) Nagabhasma (Naga-bhasma):
Naga Bhasma, the calcined ash of lead, is used in treating degenerative conditions like Jirna Amavata in Ayurveda. It strengthens the Asthi (bone) and Majja Dhatu (bone marrow), alleviating symptoms such as joint stiffness and debility in chronic rheumatoid arthritis.
23) Anupana:
Anupana refers to the carrier substance taken along with Ayurvedic medicines to enhance their effectiveness. In the case of Vatagajendrasingh Rasa, the anupana is cow milk (Godugdha), which helps in reducing the toxicity and increasing the potency of the formulation.
24) Tikta:
Tikta, or bitter taste, is one of the six primary tastes in Ayurveda. Ingredients with Tikta rasa, like Tamra Bhasma, are used for their deepana (appetizer) and lekhana (scraping) properties, helping in the management of chronic conditions like Amavata.
25) Katu:
Katu, or pungent taste, plays a vital role in stimulating digestive fire (Agni) and alleviating conditions of Ama and Kapha. Ingredients with Katu rasa, such as Jeeraka (Cumin) and Hingu (Asafoetida), are essential in managing symptoms of Amavata like indigestion and heaviness.
26) Tamrabhasma (Tamra-bhasma):
Tamra Bhasma, the calcined ash of copper, is used in formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa. It provides deepana (appetizer), lekhana (scraping), and Agnideepana (digestive fire stimulation) properties which are crucial in treating Amavata by removing accumulated Ama.
27) Tankana (Tamkana):
Tankana, or Borax, is used in Ayurvedic formulations to manage conditions of Ama and Vata. In Vatagajendrasingh Rasa, Tankana helps in reducing the effects of Vatsanabha, balancing its toxicity, and promoting digestion and heart health (Hridya).
28) Aruci:
Aruchi, or loss of appetite, is a common symptom in chronic conditions like Jirna Amavata. Ingredients like Triphala and Jeeraka used in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa help in stimulating the digestive fire, thereby alleviating symptoms of Aruchi.
29) Agnimandya (Agni-mandya, Agnimamdya):
Agnimandya, or weak digestive fire, is a significant factor in the pathogenesis of Amavata. Ayurvedic treatment includes deepana (digestive fire stimulation) herbs like Tamra Bhasma to restore Agni and manage chronic symptoms effectively.
30) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenative therapies in Ayurveda that promote longevity and overall health. Formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa containing ingredients like Abhraka Bhasma serve as Rasayanas, enhancing tissue function and countering the degenerative effects of chronic diseases like Amavata.
31) Laghu:
Laghu, or light, refers to the property of substances that are easy to digest and do not form Ama. In the treatment of Amavata, ingredients with Laghu guna such as Jeeraka are preferred to enhance digestion and reduce the accumulation of toxic metabolic waste.
32) Agni:
Agni represents the digestive and metabolic fire in Ayurveda. In conditions like Amavata, improving Agni through deepana (appetizer) and pachana (digestives) therapies using formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa is critical to managing symptoms and preventing diseases.
33) Pain:
Pain, or Shoola, is a primary symptom of Amavata, causing significant discomfort. Ingredients like Vatsanabha in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa offer pain-relief (Vedanahara) and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to manage the chronic joint pain associated with the disease.
34) Jatiphala (Jati-phala):
Jatiphala, or nutmeg, is used in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa for its deepana (appetizer), rochana (taste enhancing), and shothahara (anti-inflammatory) properties. It helps in managing Agnimandya (weak digestive fire) and alleviating Amavata-related symptoms.
35) Lavanga (Lavamga):
Lavanga, or cloves, offers deepana (digestive stimulation) and pachana (digestive) properties which are useful in treating Amavata. Ingredients like Lavanga in formulations such as Vatagajendrasingh Rasa aid in reducing indigestion, flatulence, and joint inflammation.
36) Dravya:
Dravya denotes substances or materials used in Ayurvedic medicine, whether herbal, mineral, or a combination. For example, Vatagajendrasingh Rasa contains various Dravyas like Abhraka Bhasma and Triphala, each chosen for their specific therapeutic properties in managing Amavata.
37) Kumari:
Kumari, or Aloe barbadensis, is used in Ayurvedic formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa for its kosthashodhana (gut cleansing) and rasayana (rejuvenative) properties. It's employed to bind the ingredients into pills (vatis), enhancing the formulation's effectiveness against Jirna Amavata.
38) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa refers to muscle tissue in Ayurveda. In chronic Amavata, there is degeneration of Mamsa Dhatu, leading to symptoms like muscle pain and weakness. Therapeutic formulations aim to nourish and regenerate Mamsa Dhatu to restore normal function.
39) Vatavyadhi (Vata-vyadhi):
Vatavyadhi, or Vata disorders, include a wide range of diseases like Amavata where there is an imbalance of the Vata Dosha. Formulations such as Vatagajendrasingh Rasa aim to pacify Vata and alleviate the symptoms associated with these disorders.
40) Snigdha:
Snigdha, or unctuous quality, is essential in treating Vata disorders like Amavata. Ingredients with Snigdha properties, such as those in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa, help to balance dryness and roughness, alleviating joint stiffness and promoting mobility.
41) Sharad (Sarad):
Sharad in this context refers to the author of the study, Mahakal Nilesh Sharad, who contributed to the research and review of Vatagajendrasingh Rasa in the management of Amavata.
42) Parada:
Parada, or mercury, is a significant component in preparations like Kajjali. Used in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa, Parada enhances potency and bioavailability, acting as a catalyst to increase the effectiveness of other included medicinal ingredients.
43) Hingu (Himgu):
Hingu, or Asafoetida, is known for its strong digestive properties, making it an essential ingredient in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa. It helps in alleviating Agnimandya (weak digestive fire) and other symptoms like bloating and indigestion often seen in Amavata.
44) Pandu (Pamdu, Pamde):
Pandu, or anemia, is a condition that can occur in Jirna Amavata due to weak digestive fire (Agnimandya) affecting nutrient absorption. Ingredients like Loha Bhasma in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa help to alleviate symptoms of Pandu by nourishing the blood (Rakta Dhatu).
45) Anaha:
Anaha, or abdominal bloating, is a symptom managed in the treatment of Amavata. Deepana (digestive stimulation) and pachana (digestive) ingredients in formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa help in reducing Anaha and improving overall gastrointestinal function.
46) Balya:
Balya refers to strengthening properties in Ayurveda. Balya ingredients like Abhraka Bhasma in Vatagajendrasingh Rasa help enhance physical strength and endurance, crucial for patients suffering from the weakness and debility associated with chronic conditions like Amavata.
47) Blood:
In Ayurveda, Rakta or blood is one of the seven Dhatus (tissues). Conditions like Jirna Amavata often involve the deterioration of Rakta Dhatu, leading to symptoms such as Pandu (anemia). Ingredients like Loha Bhasma are used to rejuvenate and nourish Rakta Dhatu.
48) Food:
Incorrect food habits (Ahara) can lead to the formation of Ama, contributing to diseases like Amavata. Ayurvedic treatment involves dietary adjustments and medicinal formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa to improve digestion and prevent Ama accumulation.
49) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra, a state in India, is home to institutions like Gurudev Ayurved College where research on Ayurvedic formulations such as Vatagajendrasingh Rasa for the treatment of Amavata is conducted.
50) Discussion:
The discussion section in the study explores the mode of action of Vatagajendrasingh Rasa, analyzing the properties and interactions of its ingredients to understand how they collectively manage and alleviate the symptoms of Amavata.
51) Samprapti:
Samprapti refers to the pathogenesis of a disease in Ayurveda. In the context of Amavata, understanding samprapti helps in designing formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa that aim to break the disease process and alleviate symptoms effectively.
52) Daurbalya:
Daurbalya, or weakness, is a common symptom in chronic conditions like Jirna Amavata. Ayurvedic formulations like Vatagajendrasingh Rasa include ingredients such as Abhraka Bhasma and Loha Bhasma to strengthen and rejuvenate the body, alleviating Daurbalya.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 196]