A Single-arm Open-label Prospective Trial on the Efficacy of Loha Churna Vatakam on Hb% in Iron Deficiency Anemia (Pandu)

A BSTRACT Objective: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA), known as Pandu Roga in Ayurveda, is a widespread nutritional deficiency affecting global health. Conventional iron supplements, although effective, may cause constipation or diarrhea, leading to poor compliance. This study demonstrates the efficacy of an Ayurvedic formulation, Loha Churna Vatakam (LCV), in the management of Pandu (IDA). Methodology: The study was a single-center, single-arm, open-label prospective trial. Conducted in outpatient department of Ayurvedic institution on 43 patients (aged 18–60 years) with symptoms of Pandu and hemoglobin (Hb) levels below 12 g/dl (females) and 13 g/dl (males). LCV tablets (125 mg) were administered thrice daily with ghee after meals for 30 days as an intervention. Results: The study demonstrated significant improvement in Hb levels in all patients where mean Hb levels increased from 10.63 ± 0.885 g/dl to 11.49 ± 1.283 g/dl after 30 days (showing P < 0.05). Significant improvements were observed in all clinical symptoms ( P < 0.05). Notable improvements were seen in fatigue (reduction in mean values from 1.09 to 0.02) and in dyspnea (0.95–0). Unlike conventional iron supplements, patients with preexisting constipation reported relief. Conclusion: LCV shows promise as an alternative treatment for Pandu (IDA), demonstrating effectiveness in improving Hb levels without any side effects like constipation (vibandha). The formulation’s ability to enhance both Rakta dhatu (blood tissue) formation and Agni (digestion) warrants further investigation through larger clinical trials.