A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF ASTHISAMHARAKADI CHOORNA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ASTHIKSHAYA WITH REFERENCE TO OSTEOPENIA AND OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease, representing a major public health issue. Osteopenia & Osteoporosis characterize a spectrum of conditions that present with decreased bone mass and disrupted bone microarchitecture. According to Ayurveda, Asthikshaya (diminution of bone) and Asthisoushirya (porosity of bone) are the two conditions which allies with osteopenia and osteoporosis. Asthikshaya and Asthisoushirya consequently lead to high susceptibility of Asthibhagna (fracture). This bone loss is preventable through adequate nutrition, physical activity and appropriate treatment protocols. Detection and prevention in early stages is essential as it may cause burden at individual and socioeconomic level. Ayurveda provides several therapeutic approaches to remodel the depleted or degenerated tissues. Oral administration of Oushadha yogas (medicinal formulations) is one of the highly accepted therapeutic modality. Asthisamharakadi choorna is one such polyherbal formulation which is mentioned in Chakradatta in the context of Bhagna Chikitsa. The review aims to ascertain the pharmacological effects of ingredients of Asthisamharakadi choorna and to propose its probable mode of action in Asthikshaya (osteopenia). The detailed review of the formulation and its constituents was carried from several Ayurvedic classical texts and published research articles. This review presents a detailed understanding on anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and osteoblastogenesis activity of phytoconstituents of Asthisamharakadi choorna. It enables to comprehend the bone remodelling and stabilizing effect of phytoconstituents present in each ingredient of Asthisamharakadi choorna. The pharmacological appraisal of the formulation encourages the clinical employability of Asthisamharakadi choorna for the prevention and management of Asthikshaya or Asthisoushirya, osteopenia and osteoporosis.