AMRITA GHRITA: THE AYURVEDIC ELIXIR FOR INFLAMMATION AND RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition marked by inflammation, pain, and joint damage. RA affects 0.5-1% of the adult population. RA occurs more commonly in females than in males with a 2-3:1 ratio. Conventional treatments like DMARDs and biologics address symptoms but often have limitations, prompting interest in complementary therapies. In Ayurveda, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is closely correlated with a condition called "Amavata.". Early stages of Amavata can be effectively managed with Ayurvedic treatments. Amrita (Guduchi) Ghrita, a unique traditional Ayurvedic formulation indicated in aamvata in the form of therapeutic internal oleation. Amrita ghrita contain mainly Amrita (Tinospora cordifolia, also known as Guduchi), shunthi (Zingiber officinale) and ghrita (cows ghee). They exhibits immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Its bioactive compounds mitigate oxidative stress and inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, which are central to RA progression. This review explores the pharmacological properties and mechanisms of action of Ghrita in managing RA, with a focus on Amrita or Guduchi Ghrita as described in various classical Ayurvedic texts.