Efficacy of Vyaghriharitaki Avaleha in the management of Vataja Kasa w.s.r. to Pulmonary Eosinophilia - An Open Label Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Background: Vataja Kasa (cough caused by Vata Dosha) occurs due to Pranavaha Srotodushti (causes of deformity in channels of respiratory system) characterized by dry paroxysmal cough that resembles Pulmonary eosinophilia (PE) with an elevated Absolute eosinophilic count (AEC) and eosinophilic lung infiltration. Vyaghriharitaki Avaleha is mentioned in Ayurveda classics under the context of Kasa (cough). The current study was carried out to assess its efficacy based on literary indications and the need for more potent medications to treat Vataja Kasa. Aim: Evaluation of the efficacy of Vyaghriharitaki Avaleha in the management of Vataja Kasa. Materials and Methods: A randomized, open label, parallel group, active controlled pre and post test clinical study was conducted comprising of 30 subjects. They were randomly allocated into 2 groups, subjects of Group A received Vyaghriharitaki Avaleha 5g BD and subjects of Group B received Vidangadi Churna 5g BD for 30 days. AEC and Signs & symptoms of Vataja Kasa were assessed before (0th day) and after treatment (30th day), after follow up (45th day). The data obtained were recorded, tabulated and statistically analyzed using Unpaired t test, Paired t Test, Mann Whitney U Test, Wilcoxon Signed rank test. Results: Analysis of the data within groups showed statistically highly significant (p<0.01) results and between the groups analysis showed statistically non-significant (p>0.05) results in reducing AEC and signs & symptoms of Vataja Kasa suggesting almost similar action of both drugs. Conclusion: It can be inferred that Vyaghriharitaki Avaleha is as efficient as Vidangadi Churna in the management of Vataja Kasa.