A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF BHALLATAKADI CHURNA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF AMAVATA (RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS): PHARMACOLOGICAL, THERAPEUTIC, AND CLINICAL PERSPECTIVE

Amavata is a disorder caused by the accumulation of Ama due to impaired Agni and the aggravation of Vata Dosha. In Madhava Nidana (25/6–10), the characteristic symptoms of Amavata include Angamarda (body ache), Aruchi (loss of appetite), Trishna (excessive thirst), Alasya (lassitude), Gaurava (heaviness), Jwara (fever), Apaka (indigestion), and Shunata Anganam (swelling of body parts). The disease predominantly affects joints such as the hands, feet, ankles, knees, hips, and shoulders, producing severe pain, swelling, stiffness, and restricted movement. Associated features include excessive salivation, anorexia, fatigue, burning sensation, polyuria, abdominal distension, constipation, sleep disturbances, nausea, giddiness, and generalized weakness.