AN AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF Vataja Gridhrast WITH Sephalipatra Kwatha : A CASE STUDY

Gridhrasi, one among the Nānātmaja Vātavyādhi described in Ayurveda, is characterized by Ruk (radiating pain), Stambha (stiffness), Toda (pricking sensation) and Sakti Utkṣepa Nigrahaṇa (difficulty in lifting the leg). It closely correlates with sciatica in modern medicine, where nerve root compression or irritation leads to similar symptoms. The condition mainly arises due to vitiation of Vāta Doṣa, particularly Apāna and Vyāna Vāyu, resulting in Srotorodha and neuromuscular dysfunction. This case report presents the successful Ayurvedic management of a 37-year-old male diagnosed with Vātaja Gridhrasi (right-sided sciatica) for three years. The patient was treated with Śephalipatra Kwātha (decoction of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis leaves) 50 ml twice daily for 30 days, administered on an empty stomach without any external therapy. Remarkable improvement was noted from the second week, and by the end of treatment, all major symptoms, pain, stiffness, pricking sensation, and difficulty in leg movement, had remarkably subsided. Post-treatment assessment showed normalization of the Straight Leg Raising Test and negative Bragard’s sign. The results can be attributed to the Vātahara, Vedanasthāpana, and Śothahara properties of Śephalipatra, supported by its scientifically proven anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions. This case highlights the potential of classical Ayurvedic formulations in managing neuromuscular disorders like sciatica, providing safe, effective, and holistic relief without adverse effects. Keywords: Vātaja Gridhrasi, Sciatica, Śephalipatra Kwātha, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis