Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine

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https://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/150201

Editor: Professor Bhushan Patwardhan

ISSN: 0975-9476

Frequency: Quarterly

Language: English

Official Journal of the Institute of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, Bangalore

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

Web site: https://www.jaim.in/

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Eighteen months of non-union of an upper third tibial fracture treated with Ayurvedic herbal medicines and Panchakarma: A case report
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) S, SP; H, S; P, S; N, RG; P, AT; B, AM; N, MR
In the present case, a 29-year-old male met with a road traffic accident and sustained a closed comminuted fracture of the upper third (U/3) of the tibia of his left leg. The patient was operated (Open Reduction Internal Fixation, ORIF) with internal nailing. Even after 18 months, the fracture line was visible in the X-ray, so he was re-operated (ORIF) and the nail was replaced by plate fixation. However, after the second operation, the patient developed foot drop and hyperesthesia due to peroneal nerve injury. In view of this complicated history, the patient was suggested to take supportive Ayurvedic medicines and Panchakarma to hasten the healing process. The Ayurvedic medicines Lakshadi guggul 500 mg, Mashadi Yoga 500 mg and Asthi majja yoga 500 mg three times a day were started. The follow-up X-ray examination after eight months of treatment didn’t show considerable callus at the fracture site, so Panchakarma therapy was given for 21 days. Callus formation was seen within 3 weeks after completing Panchakarma treatment. The oral medications were continued and a follow-up X-ray examination on two more months of treatment showed near complete healing (Fracture line was obliterated because of considerable callus). The medicine was continued for two more months. Afterwards, the patient came back after one year and the follow-up X-ray examination showed complete healing. The internal plate was removed and complete fracture recovery was reported. Thus, a patient with a non-union fracture of the tibia was treated successfully with add-on Ayurvedic medicines and Panchakarma therapy
Effect of Anjana Kriyakalpa in refractive errors: Evaluation through refraction and corneal topography indices - A case series
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) Devarajan, Deenadayal; Rajagopala, Manjusha
Refractive errors, a significant cause of visual impairment, is becoming increasingly prevalent in India, particularly among school children. This case series describes the effects of Pathyadi Varti Anjana, an Ayurvedic herbomineral formulation, in refractive errors associated with distant vision. Three patients with varying degrees of myopia and myopic astigmatism were treated with Pathyadi Varti applied as Anjana, twice daily for a period of three to six weeks. Parameters including Visual Acuity (VA), Objective Refraction (OR), Clinical Refraction (CR), and corneal topography metrics such as Simulated Keratometry (Sim K’s), Shape Factor (SF), Corneal Irregularity Measurement (CIM), Toric Keratometric Mean (TKM), Root Mean Square (RMS), and PathFinder II Normalcy (PathFII) were assessed before and after treatment. The results demonstrated improvements in unaided VA, reductions in spherical and cylindrical refractive errors, and enhancements in corneal surface regularity and wavefront aberrations across all cases. These findings suggest that Pathyadi Varti Anjana may offer a promising Ayurvedic approach to the management of refractive errors, supporting its potential role in contemporary ophthalmic practices.
Integrated Yoga and Ayurveda therapy for negative symptoms in schizophrenia: A case series highlighting safety and synergistic value of integrative and personalized healthcare
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) K, K; K, V; S, C; U, C; B, H; S, V; R, KK; J, N; V, S
Negative symptoms are a significant contributor to the psychopathology of schizophrenia, primarily affecting socio-occupational functioning. Though effective in managing positive symptoms, most pharmacological agents have limited effects on the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, especially the primary negative symptoms. We discuss five cases (4 males, one female, age range: 24–36 years) of chronic schizophrenia (diagnosed as per ICD10 criteria) with duration of illness ranging from 2 to 18 years. All the cases had negative symptoms with moderate to extreme severity on the scale for assessment of negative symptoms (SANS) (scores 49 or above; range 49–82). Subjects underwent integrated yoga and ayurveda (IYA) intervention for 12 weeks. Ayurveda intervention included systematic detox (Panchakarma Shodhana) and pacifying herbs (Shamana), whereas yoga involved the practice of a previously validated yoga module. For all the subjects, anti-psychotic medications were stable for the last eight weeks and did not change during the 12-week IYA intervention and eight weeks after. Post-intervention SANS scores were reduced in all the subjects. The reduction of SANS scores ranged from ? 15 to ? 43 (average: ? 35.6), corresponding to CGI-I ratings of ‘much improved’ in three subjects and ‘minimally improved’ in two subjects. Clinical assessments by an independent psychiatrist at baseline, during IYA (4 weeks), immediately post-IYA (12 weeks), and eight weeks post-IYA did not reveal any new potential side effects due to IYA or worsening of other clinical symptoms or exaggeration of side effects of antipsychotics. This needs further scientific exploration through systematic clinical and mechanistic trials in the future.
Aqueous leaf extract of Vitex negundo modulates M1-M2 phenotypic switch and functional changes in human macrophages in an in vitro model of hypertension
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) N, BM; R, D; S, RD; P, S; F, N; H, S
Background: Inflammation and oxidative stress are key drivers of hypertension. Vitex negundo L. is a medicinal plant used in Ayurveda and has potential anti-inflammatory effects. Objectives: This study aims to assess the immunomodulatory effects of aqueous mature leaf extract (ALE) of V. negundo in an in vitro model of hypertension. Materials and methods: Non-toxic concentrations of ALE were selected using SRB and MTT assays. Quantitative NBT and Griess assays were done to assess the effect of the ALE on Ang-II-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) respectively. The effect of ALE of V. negundo on the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin 6, interleukin 1 beta and nuclear factor kappa B were assessed using RT-qPCR. Expression of M0, M1 and M2 surface markers were assessed using flow cytometry. Results: ALE of V. negundo inhibited the production ROS and RNS in a dose-dependent manner comparable with Telmisartan drug control (p < 0.0001). Ang-II activated, THP-1 derived macrophages expressed high levels of M1 markers. Interestingly, the pre-treatment of Ang-II-activated, THP-1 derived macrophages with ALE of V. negundo increased the expression of M2 marker as CD206high (89.63%) but no increase in CD163-moderate (27.1%). Both ALE of V. negundo and Telmisartan down-regulated the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines in the hypertension model (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The results suggest the potential of ALE of V. negundo in exerting immunomodulatory effects in an in vitro model of angiotensin II-mediated hypertension mainly by modulating M1-M2 macrophage switch and limiting inflammation and production of pro-oxidants.
Sexual stimulatory effects of Mucuna pruriens in rodents: An experiment following Ayurvedic perspective
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) D, M; T, B; J, JB; P, S; L, K; N, R; M, T
Background: Dopaminergic neurotransmission is critical to managing a variety of physiological activities, including sexual behavior. Erectile dysfunction is frequently related to low dopamine levels and hyperglycemia, both of which can be alleviated by Mucuna pruriens, a natural source of levodopa and other bioactive compounds. The existing hypothesis depicts that decreased dopaminergic neurotransmission and hyperglycemia lead to erectile dysfunction. Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to establish the hypoglycemic action and sexual stimulatory effects of Mucuna pruriens in rodents. The secondary objective was to evaluate the effect on general rodent behavior, which can validate the safety profile of Mucuna pruriens for clinical use. Methods: Standardized Mucuna pruriens extract was given orally to male rodents for a predetermined amount of time. Blood samples were withdrawn from the male rats to measure the glucose levels at predetermined intervals. During mating trials, sexual activity metrics such as mount frequency and delay, intromission frequency, and ejaculation frequency were recorded. Standard open-field and exploratory behavior tests were used to track general behavior and evaluate any unfavorable or unusual changes. Results: Mucuna pruriens significantly decreased blood glucose levels and increased male sexual activity and behaviors in rodents (mount frequency and latency, intromission frequency, and ejaculation frequency). Conclusion: Thus, Mucuna pruriens can be the alternative natural bioactive to prevent and treat sexual dysfunction.
Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, for the prophylaxis against SARS-CoV-2 infection: A multicentric randomized hydroxychloroquine controlled clinical trial in Indian health care workers
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) Kulkarni-Munshi, R; Talmohite, D; More, A; Chakravarty, J; Kamat, S; K, A; Reddy, DH; Patel, M; K, D; Singh, R; Kumari, S; Mishra, P; S, AK; Bhagat, V; Pandey, S; Yadav, M; D, R; Bhat, S; Kansal, S; Munot, S; K, D; T, R; G, S; M, P; P, J; S, D; P, P; Shah, J; Bhale, J; S, V; A, A; Avhad, A; K, N; M, DM; Chopra, A
Background: The study was planned when, the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) was the only prophylactic agent approved by health authorities in several countries and no prophylactic COVID-19 vaccine was available. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate efficacy of Withania Somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) as a chemoprophylactic and immunomodulatory agent against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: In a 12 week, randomized, open label, parallel group, two arm, comparative, multicentric, controlled trial compared WS with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in health care workers (HCWs). Total 400 HCWs were randomized in 1:1 ratio to receive either oral WS (500 mg for 12 weeks) or HCQ 400 mg (for 7 weeks). The primary outcome was to establish equivalence between WS and HCQ for the proportion of participants contracting SARS-CoV-2 infection. Results: Seven participants contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection: 5 in WS arm and 2 in HCQ arm. The equivalence between WS and HCQ was established for the proportion difference of participants contracting SARS-CoV-2 infection for per-protocol (PP) (1.6%, 95% CI: ? 1.08%–4.33%) and in subgroup analysis (ITT, mIIT, nonvaccinated and seronegative).
Multimodal Ayurvedic intervention provided 15 years of progression free survival to a female patient with recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of tongue - A case report
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) S, S; D, V; G, V; D, S; K, S; D, S; B, S; G, S; C, S
Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common type of oral cancer, accounting for 90%–95% of all cancers in the mouth. It is typically noted in individuals over the age of 40, especially men between 60 and 80. However, there has been a recent increase in oral cancer cases among women and younger individuals. We present a case of a 49-year-old female diagnosed with Stage III, moderately differentiated Squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue in August 2005. The patient underwent radiation therapy (35 fractions/70 Gy) and received adjunct chemotherapy (6 cycles of Inj. Cisplatin – LD on October 21, 2005). Despite these treatments, residual induration on the tongue persisted, leading to a Knife biopsy in April 2007 that confirmed the presence of squamous carcinoma infiltrating the lingual muscles. Further, she underwent Wide Excision Glossectomy with Left Supra-Omohyoid Neck Dissection in May 2007 and Total Glossectomy with Hemi mandibulectomy with Left Supra-Omohyoid Neck Dissection in August 2011. In addition to conventional cancer treatments, the patient opted for Ayurvedic treatment at our center, which included a combination of oral Herbo-mineral metallic medicines and detoxifying Panchakarma procedures. The 12-year progression-free survival achieved in this case highlights the potential benefits of combining conventional cancer treatment with personalized adjunct Ayurvedic therapy.
Ayurvedagranthasamuccaya' (APTA Digital Library) - A searchable digital bouquet of classical Ayurveda books
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) N, VR; S, MM; T, SR; L, VK; C, MB; A, V; K, A; M, P; S, N
Adopting changes that come with time is essential for any knowledge system to stay relevant in contemporary times. The classical textbooks of Ayurveda, such as Carakasamhita, Sushrutasamhita, and Ashtangahridaya, as well as the plethora of Ayurveda literature available from yore, stay relevant today owing to its application in clinical practice. The journey of Ayurveda Samhita and other literature, from oral tradition to printed books, is remarkable in itself. With the advent of digital technologies, the shift from printed text to digital text is inevitable, and the earliest transitions happened in the form of e-Carakasamhita and e-Sushrutasamhita, published by the National Institute of Indian Medical Heritage under the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences in 2010 [1,2]. The e-Madhavanidana and e-Nighantu applications followed this in 2013 [3,4]. The electronic Samhita enabled text-based search in these texts. However, the search was limited to individual texts. The logical ‘next step’ was a platform where all these texts could be searched in a single online platform with added features. This prompted the development of the Ayurvedagranthasamuccaya (APTA Digital Library), APTA standing for Authoritative Principal Textbooks of Ayurveda, which is a searchable digital bouquet of classical Ayurveda books developed by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) for the use of Ayurveda students, teachers, practitioners, and researchers. Ayurvedagranthasamuccaya is a web-based application module that enables reading, searching, and learning classical Ayurveda texts in a digital environment. Electronic books in the form of PDF documents and other electronic formats have been in vogue for many decades [5]. However, the electronic versions of Ayurveda Samhita have empowered the academicians and researchers of Ayurveda by enabling ease of access and ease of finding desired information and thus simplifying the literature search in Ayurveda. Web application technologies such as Angular and Python have helped overcome the limitation of the requirement of software installation as well as the availability of newer features. An earlier short communication had described the features of this portal [6]. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive description of the portal for the benefit of interested stakeholders in Ayurveda and other fields.
Ayurvedic management of chemotherapy induced adverse effects in sigmoid colon carcinoma - a case report
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) P., Divya
Colorectal cancer is one among the leading causes of death in the present world. Either the adverse effects of the chemotherapeutic drugs force the patients to discontinue the treatment or the deteriorated health status due to progression of the disease may lead to death. This is the study of a case of stage 3 sigmoid colon cancer which was managed by an integrated approach and led to the heathy survival of the patient after five years. Ayurvedic management was done to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy and for the prevention of the recurrence of the disease. The patient was treated with adjuvant chemotherapy with FOLFOX regimen and the side effects were managed by Ayurvedic medicines.
Withaferin A reduces pulmonary eosinophilia and IL-25 production in a mouse model of allergic airways disease
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) A, K; M, VL; W, J; G, MA; P, S; I, JL
Background: Several studies report that ashwagandha, a traditional Ayurvedic supplement, has anti-inflammatory properties. Type 2 (T2) asthma is characterized by eosinophilic airway inflammation. Objective: We hypothesized that allergen-induced eosinophilic airway inflammation in mice would be reduced following administration of Withaferin A (WFA), the primary active phytochemical in Ashwagandha. Materials and Methods: C57BL/6J mice were given 10 total intra-peritoneal injections of 2 mg/kg WFA or vehicle control, concurrent with 6 total intranasal administrations of 50 ?g house dust mite extract (HDM) or saline control over 2 weeks. Results: We observed that treatment with WFA reduced allergen-induced peribronchial inflammation and airway eosinophil counts compared to mice treated with controls. In addition, we observed that treatment with WFA reduced lung levels of interleukin-25 (IL-25) but increased lung gene expression levels of its co-receptor, Il17ra, in HDM-challenged mice compared to HDM-challenged mice that received the vehicle control. Conclusion: This study pinpoints a potential mechanism by which WFA modulates allergen-induced airway eosinophilia via the IL-25 signaling pathway. Future studies will investigate the effects of WFA administration on lung eosinophilia and IL-25 signaling in the context of chronic allergen-challenge.
Polyherbal formulation mitigates age-associated cognitive deficits in rats
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) D, MP; G, S; S, S; S, C; B, HA; S, R
Background: Age-related cognitive decline is a common biological phenomenon that appears to be driven by accelerated oxidative stress pathways. As natural polyherbal phytoconstituents positively modulate such pathological changes, herbal formulations are gaining notable attention in the mitigation of age-associated cognitive impairments. Objectives: To study the effect of polyherbal extracts on cognitive functions in 52–54 weeks old rats compared to young adult rats. Material and methods: The anxiety as well as learning and memory functions were assessed employing elevated plus maze, Morris water maze (MWM), and novel object recognition test (NORT). The levels of antioxidant enzymes, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), neurotransmitters, cytokines, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were estimated in blood and/or brain samples using biochemical assays, LC? MS/MS, ELISA, and immunofluorescence methods. Results: The peroral administration of polyherbal plant extracts for 12 weeks showed trends toward improvement of learning and memory functions in the MWM and/or NORT in 52–54 weeks old rats. The locomotor activity and anxiety-like behavior remained similar in young vs. aged rats. We noted lowered levels of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and homocysteine) and AChE in the frontal cortex of brain and/or blood samples of 52–54 weeks old rats. We also observed the negative impact of aging on the levels of neurotransmitters (dopamine, noradrenaline, and 5-HT), cytokines (TNF-?, IL-6, and CRP), BDNF, and NeuN expression in the hippocampus/frontal cortex in 52–54 weeks old rats vs. young rats. The altered levels of these antioxidant enzymes, AChE, neurotransmitters, cytokines, and other biogenic substances were reversed in polyherbal-recipient rats. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the memory-improving activity of polyherbal formulation may be attributed to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Thus, we suggest the utility of this Indian polyherbal formulation in delaying the onset or reducing age-associated cognitive impairments.
Effect of Lekhan Basti and Navak Guggul on lipid markers and transcriptional effects of selected genes in obese patients: A single-centre, open-labelled, randomized, comparative, pilot study
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) Munshi, Renuka; Panchal, Falguni; Kumbhar, Dipti
Background: Ayurveda recommends an integrative approach of shodhana & shamana therapy for Obesity management. Objective: This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of Navak Guggul and Lekhan Basti, individually and in combination, with respect to anthropometric, biochemical levels and transcriptional profiling of selected candidate genes in obese participants. Material and methods: Single-centre, open-labelled, randomized, comparative, pilot study was conducted following Institutional Ethics Committee approval. 64 obese participants of either gender, aged between 25 and 60 years with BMI 28–32.9 kg/m2 and WHR (Men>0.90 and Women>0.85) were randomly allocated to four groups, each with 16 participants, to receive either Navak Guggul or Lekhan Basti, individually or in combination or no treatment in addition to diet and lifestyle modification. Anthropometric measurements, ayurvedic symptoms severity score, impact of weight on quality of life (IWQOL), biochemical tests and genetic expressions of select genes (UCP2, AD1POR1, FTO, GHRL, Leptin and PPAR?) were assessed at baseline (V1), immediately after therapy (V4) and 2 months post-therapy (V6). Results: 50 participants completed the study. Participants from all groups showed significant reduction in BMI (except Group IV) with significant improvement in the ayurvedic symptoms score. Improvement in the IWQOL score was seen at V4 in all groups with maximal reduction in serum lipids in Groups I and III. Transcriptional profiling revealed increased expression of UCP2, ADIPOR1 and PPAR? genes at V4 and decreased expression of FTO, Ghrelin and Leptin genes compared to V1. Conclusion: Lekhan Basti and combination therapy were beneficial in reducing anthropometric and lipid parameters. Several genes were differentially expressed immediately post-treatment suggesting their role as candidate genes in obesity management.
Efficacy of integrated protocol in the management of ankle sprain in sports injuries - A randomized controlled clinical trial
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) Goud, Dinesh; Killedar, Ramesh S.; S, Shindhe Pradeep; Bagewadi, Deepti
Background: Among athletes, ankle sprains are the most frequent injury, with an prevalence of 12.62% of all injuries. Sports injuries can be prevented and treated more effectively when complementary and alternative medicine is used. In Ayurveda ankle joint injuries are correlated with Gulpha (ankle) marmabhighata (injury to important point of concern for health) and management is done accordingly. Integrated approach using Ayurveda and Physiotherapy protocol is the need of hour to produce evidence-based results. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of the integrated management protocol of ankle sprain in sports injuries. Materials and methods: A total of 30 patients with ankle sprains were recruited after satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The procedures (Integrated and Standard) were performed after obtaining informed consent, and the participants were divided into two groups, i.e., the treatment group (integrated approach) and the control group (standard approach). Parameters like pain, swelling, temperature, tenderness, range of motion and manual muscle testing were all measured at baseline and at various time points (6th, 11th, and 18th day) throughout the study. Statistical analysis: The data was analysed with the Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon matched pairs test, independent ’t’ test, and dependent ‘t’test. Results: The treatment group has shown significantly better results (within and between groups) than the control group in relation to all the parameters like pain, tenderness, temperature, swelling, range of motion, and manual muscle testing. Conclusion: An integrated approach using Ayurveda and physiotherapy was found to be more effective than the standard approach in the management of ankle sprains.
Ayurveda management of an acute intervertebral disc prolapse: A case report
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) Balakrishnan, Praveen; Surendran, Emy S.; Raj, Lisha S.
Intervertebral disc prolapse (IVDP) or disc herniation is a moderately common disorder in males during their third to fifth decade of life. Conservative treatments are limited and surgery is an effective treatment option, but without much benefits in the long-term follow-up. Many claims of effects of Ayurveda interventions for IVDP are made, but evidence of effects of Ayurveda interventions in acute cases is meagre. This case report highlights the effects of Ayurveda management (following a multimodal approach with lepa, upanaha, pinda sweda, and vasti) within a short period of time of 26 days, in an acute case of IVDP. The Oswestry Disability Index reduced from 45 to zero and Functional Rating Index from 40 to 2. There was a linear reduction in pain and numbness in weekly follow up using the visual analogue scale. This case report highlights the role of Ayurveda treatments in the management of acute cases of intervertebral disc prolapse to achieve result within a short span of time.
Export of evidence-based wellness services: An opportunity to actualize India's demographic dividend
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) Sarwal, Rakesh; Bhargav, Hemant; Gopalakrishnan, Badri Narayanan
India’s demographic dividend offers a critical opportunity to drive sustained economic growth over the next three decades, driven by increasing its share in global trade. Up until 1700, India had a thriving industrial manufacturing economy, producing about 25 % of the world’s industrial output, making it the most important manufacturing centre in international trade. Based on recent trends, we argue that the service sector presents considerable growth potential. Within the service sector, despite a small share currently, the healthcare and wellness demonstrate particular promise. Leveraging India’s vast pool of trained professionals and its established expertise in traditional systems of medicine, notably AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy), suitable governmental initiatives are needed based on a strategy and a road map to incentivize exporters, get international recognition of Indian certifications, particularly by developed nations. This is essential for the growth of the export of wellness services from India, but can also help reduce the burgeoning healthcare costs, inequity and address the needs of ageing populations in developed countries.
Effects of yogic practices on physiological and biochemical parameters of hypertensive patients: A systematic review of clinical trials
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) Tyagi, Prakhar; Jain, Khushbu
Background: Hypertension affects around 1.28 billion adults worldwide. If not managed properly, it can lead to life threatening conditions. While various pharmacological treatments are available, they are associated with various short- and long-term side effects. Hence it is crucial to explore alternative approaches to complement the standard medical interventions. Objective: This systematic review aims to explore the impacts of yogic practices on various physiological and biochemical parameters in hypertensive patients. Methods: Various electronic databases including PubMed, Cochrane library, Directory of Open Access Journals and Google scholar were systematically searched until October 31, 2023 to collect relevant data. Results: A total of 15 articles comprising 5 RCTs and 10 clinical trials were identified. The number of participants ranged between 33 and 300, with Yoga intervention lasting from two months to a year. The analyses revealed that Yogic practices, such as loosening practices, Surya Namaskar, Tadasana, Trikonasana, Paschimottanasana, Shavasana. Anulom-Vilom Pranayama, Bhramari Pranayama, meditation and Yoga Nidra, positively influenced physiological and biochemical markers linked to Hypertension such as autonomic nervous system activity, angiotensin II expression, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, immune system function and inflammatory gene expression. Conclusion: The findings of this systematic review indicate that the Yoga practices have a positive impact on physiological and biochemical markers associated with hypertension which may help in its proper management and treatment. Future studies need to assess additional markers associated with hypertension, such as vasopressin, adrenocorticotropic hormone, gamma-aminobutyric acid and others to enhance the understanding of the mechanism of the effects of Yoga on hypertension.
Assessing the work-related health and well-being of yoga and naturopathy professionals: A cross-sectional study from India
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) Nair, Pradeep M.K.; Silwal, Karishma; Kodali, Prakash Babu; Tewani, Gulab
Background: Health workers face significant hazards in their occupational settings. While many studies document the health risks of conventional healthcare workers, CAM health workers encounter unique challenges, including physical strain from repetitive tasks and psychosocial stressors from intensive patient interactions. Despite the widespread practice of yoga and naturopathy in India and globally, there is a lack of reports on the occupational health and well-being of yoga and naturopathy health workers. Objectives: This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the occupational health issues and well-being of yoga and naturopathy professionals, providing valuable insights to improve their work environments and support systems. Methods: A crosssectional study was conducted in a yoga and naturopathy-based lifestyle medicine hospital in India. Participants included doctors, interns, therapists, drivers, and administrative, kitchen, and housekeeping staff with at least one year of work experience. Data on general well-being, quality of life, fatigue, and work-related burnout were collected using validated questionnaires. Data analysis involved univariate and multivariate approaches to compute prevalence and identify factors associated with burnout, pain, and occupational symptoms. Results: Among 138 participants, 68.1% were female, and 34.1% were therapists. Most participants were overweight or obese. High burnout levels were reported by 29%, with eye strain (41.3%) and sleep disturbances (26.8%) being prevalent occupational health issues. Females and those with up to six years of experience had higher odds of occupational symptoms and burnout. Conclusions: The majority perceived the workplace as safe, with no reports of sexual harassment. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve the occupational health and well-being of yoga and naturopathy health workers. Future research should include larger, more diverse samples across multiple settings to validate and expand upon these findings.
Efficacy of topical analgesia Zanthoxylum rhetsa in the treatment of primary knee osteoarthritis: A randomized, double-blind, positive-controlled clinical trial
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-06) Imphat, Chureeporn; Woottisin, Nanthakarn; Chiewsilp, Wiwat
Background: The essential oil from the pericarp (EOP) of Zanthoxylum rhetsa (Roxb.) DC. inhibits prostaglandin E2, which is related to knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, there is no clinical report on its efficacy. Objectives: To assess the efficacy of EOP in Z. rhetsa (ZR) spray as a novel spray compared to diclofenac (DF) spray in elderly individuals diagnosed with primary knee OA. Methods: 60 patients with unilateral knee pain over three months were randomly assigned to either the ZR spray (experimental) or DF spray (control) group. Each group applied the spray topically 3 times daily (2 mL each time) for 14 consecutive days. Follow-ups occurred after day 7 and after day 14. Primary outcomes included pain score measurements, with secondary outcomes focusing on WOMAC index scores. Results: The ZR and DF spray groups did not significantly differ at baseline. ZR spray is the first to demonstrate non-inferior efficacy compared to DF spray, with no significant difference in the mean change of pain scores at rest after 10 min (effect size <0.2) and following a 20-m walk test (effect size <0.5), including walking time (effect size <0.2), as well as in WOMAC index scores (effect size <0.3) from baseline to the first and second visits. Additionally, patients treated with ZR spray required less oral medication from the first visit. Conclusions: Analgesia and improved knee functionality provided by ZR spray are suitable for combined treatment in elderly patients with co-morbidities or limited oral NSAID medication due to increased risk.
Potentilla fulgens root extract rich in polyphenols ameliorate diabetic foot ulcers in wistar rats via regulating oxidative stress and connective tissue markers
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-02) Kumar, Suman; Nikam, Yogesh P.; Ghose, Shatabdi; Kushari, Susankar; Gurav, SS; Prasad, SK; Borbora, D; Laloo, Damiki
Background: Potentilla fulgens (Wall.) ex Hook. (Rosaceae), commonly known as ‘Bajradanti’ is native to the lower Himalayan regions inclusive of the North-East India. Traditionally, the plant is used to treat chronic ailments like diabetes and diverse wounds, including gastric and mouth ulcers, and injuries from tiger bites. Objective: This study aims to assess the efficacy of P. fulgens root extract rich in polyphenolics in healing diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) in rats. Methods: DFU was induced in streptozotocin-nicotinamide diabetic rat feet by open excision wound model. Rats were divided into eight groups (n = 6/group): normal, negative control, plain gel (placebo) control, 1% silver sulfadiazine, and P. fulgens treated with topical ethyl acetate (EAPF, 5% and 10%) and methanol extract (MEPF, 5% and 10%). The morphological, histological and various biochemical parameters associated with the wound healing process such as connective tissue repair and oxidative stress biomarkers were evaluated. Results: Topical application of EAPF 10% and MEPF 10% over 21 days significantly (p < 0.05) reduced ulcer area in DFU rats compared to negative control. Furthermore, the extracts treated group notably (p < 0.05) increased levels of connective tissue biomarkers (total protein, hydroxyproline, hexosamine, and hexuronic acid) and antioxidant components (SOD and GSH), while significantly (p < 0.05) decreasing levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in foot tissue homogenate. Histological analysis of rats treated with the extracts revealed significant evidence of tissue repair, characterised by enhanced epithelial and collagen formation, along with decreased polymorphonuclear infiltration and edema. Conclusion: In summary, treatment with EAPF 10% significantly improved foot ulcers by modulating oxidative stress and connective tissue biomarkers in DFU animals.
Role of Shirodhara and Abhyanga on serum cortisol in Anxiety – A case report
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-02) Sharma, Ashu; Sugandh, Megha; Bhardwaj, Atul; Gupta, Arun
Chittodvega, classified as a Mano-Vikara (psychological disorder) in Ayurveda, can be correlated with general anxiety disorder. The disturbance of Vata Dosha plays a critical role in its manifestation. Ayurvedic treatments such as Abhyanga (oleation) and Shirodhara (dripping of medicated oil or other suitable liquid on forehead) are known to pacify Vata. Abhyanga helps to stabilize the body, while Shirodhara enhances concentration, promoting mental stability. Both procedures synergistically balance Vata Dosha, addressing the physiological and psychological aspects of Chittodvega.A 50-year-old male patient presented with complaints of anxiety at Ch. Brahm Prakash Ayurveda Charak Sansthan, New Delhi. He underwent a 14-day treatment regimen, including 7 days of hospitalization and 7 days of follow-up. The treatment involved Abhyanga(Oleation) with Til Taila (sesame oil) and Shirodhara with Dashmool Siddha Ksheer (herbal milk decoction), aimed at assessing their impact on serum cortisol levels. Both, morning and evening cortisol level of this patient was within the normal range before and after the treatment. This study was done only to check the effectiveness of Abhyanga and Shirodhara on serum cortisol level. Observable changes were found in serum cortisol along with a reduction in the patient’s anxiety symptoms, demonstrating the efficacy of these Ayurvedic interventions in managing Chittodvega

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