Evaluation of Comparative Efficacy of Goghrita with Saindhava Matrabasti versus Goghrita Matrabasti in Sciatica (Gridhrasi): A Randomised Controlled Trial Research Protocol

Introduction: Modern lifestyles contribute to nutritional deficiencies and health issues, with low back pain affecting 80-90% of individuals. Sedentary living, poor posture and stress often lead to sciatica, characterised by pain radiating down the leg, which is classified in Ayurveda as Gridhrasi, a Vata disorder. Need for the study: Due to sedentary lifestyles, poor posture and job challenges, sciatica is becoming increasingly common. Traditional therapies have significant disadvantages. While contemporary treatments such as analgesics, physiotherapy, or surgery frequently alleviate symptoms, they do not address the underlying issues. Recurrence and adverse effects are common. Ayurvedic therapies that provide comprehensive and long-lasting relief, such as Matrabasti, require evidence-based acceptance. This treatment reduces pain and stiffness by lubricating the muscles and nerves. Aim: To evaluate and compare the efficacy of Goghrita (cow clarified butter) with Saindhav Lavana (rock salt) Matrabasti (enema) versus Goghrita Matrabasti in Gridhrasi (sciatica). Materials and Methods: A randomised single-blind (assessor) superiority trial will be conducted at the Department of Panchakarma, Mahatma Gandhi Ayurved College Hospital and Research Centre (MGACHRC), Salod Hirapur (H), Maharashtra, India, from November 2024 to January 2026. Subjects will be divided into two groups of 30 each. In group A (Control), Goghrita Matrabasti 60 mL will be administered after meals for nine days and in group B (Experimental), Goghrita 60 mL with 5 grams of Saindhav Lavana will be given after meals for nine days. The assessment will be based on subjective parameters such as Spandana (Twitching), Ruk (Pain), Stambha (Stiffness), Toda (Pricking pain), Aruchi (Loss of taste), Tandra (Stupor) and Gaurava (Heaviness), as well as objective criteria including the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scale, the Straight Leg Raising Test (SLRT), Range of Motion and the Schober test on the 0th, 9th, 18th day. Statistical analysis will be conducted using paired and unpaired t-tests for intra- and intergroup comparisons and a Chi-square test for categorical data. A p-value <0.05 will be considered statistically significant.