"ROLE OF AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF AAMVATA W.S.R. RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS - A CASE STUDY"

Background: Due to modern lifestyle, unhealthy dietary habits, stress, and sedentary routines, the incidence of Ama-related disorders is increasing. Amavata, first described by Madhavakara, is a disease caused by the vitiation of Vata Dosha along with the accumulation of Ama in the joints and closely resembles Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) in modern medicine. Contemporary management mainly provides symptomatic relief with potential adverse effects, highlighting the need for safer and effective alternatives. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of Ayurvedic management in a diagnosed case of Amavata. Materials and Methods: A single case study of a 32-year-old female patient presenting with joint pain, swelling, morning stiffness, restricted movements, weakness, and Agnimandya. Diagnosis was based on classical Ayurvedic features and modern investigations. The treatment protocol included Bahya Chikitsa (Valukapottali Sweda, Dashanga Lepa), Panchakarma (Vaitaran), and Shamana Chikitsa using formulations such as Singhnad Guggulu, Punarnava Guggulu, Vatavidhvansa Rasa, Arogyavardhini Vati, Amavatari Rasa, herbal churnas, Guduchi Kwatha, and Swadishta Virechana Churna. Results: Significant improvement was observed in pain, swelling, stiffness, mobility, appetite, and general well-being, with reduction in inflammatory markers. Conclusion: Ayurvedic management based on Yogaratnakara principles of Langhana, Ruksha Sweda, Deepana-Pachana, Virechana, and Basti proved effective in breaking the Samprapti of Amavata and can be considered a beneficial approach in its management.