A CLINICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF PRAVAHIKA W.S.R. TO AMOEBIC DYSENTERY

Among the various gastrointestinal disorders described in Ayurveda, Grahani, Atisara, Pravahika, and Arshas are the most commonly encountered. Pravahika was first classified as a distinct clinical condition by ancient scholars such as Sushruta and Madhavakara, while Charaka referred to it as a symptom within the context of Kaphaja Atisara. The condition is primarily associated with poor hygiene, which contributes significantly to its transmission. From a pathological perspective, Pravahika results from the vitiation of Samana Vata, Kledaka Kapha, and Apana Vata. Clinically, it exhibits a strong resemblance to amoebic dysentery. Although the etiologies of Pravahika and amoebic dysentery are similar, the presence of Entamoeba histolytica is not always confirmed in every case of Pravahika. Conversely, not all cases of amoebic dysentery present with classical symptoms like tenesmus or Pravahana (straining). Thus, Pravahika appears to be the most relevant Ayurvedic counterpart to amoebiasis, particularly its dysenteric form.