Development of Tools for Mūtra Parīkṣā of Vātaja Prameha with Special Reference to Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction: Mūtra Parīkṣā, one among the Aṣṭasthāna Parīkṣā described in Ayurveda, plays an important role in the diagnosis of Prameha. The four varieties of Vātaja Prameha are differentiated based on characteristic urinary features, including quantity, appearance, colour and specific constituents. Although these features are described in classical texts, standardized tools for their objective assessment are lacking, limiting clinical applicability and reproducibility. Standardization of Mūtra Parīkṣā is therefore essential to enhance its diagnostic utility. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 30 clinically diagnosed cases of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and 30 apparently healthy individuals. Based on classical descriptions of Vātaja Prameha, tools were developed to assess Prabhūta Mūtratā, Āvila Mūtratā, Varṇa, Gandha and other characteristic urinary features. These included a 24-hour Frequency-Volume Chart, urine colour chart, turbidimeter, urinary odour questionnaire, urine dipstick analysis, ferric chloride test and microscopic examination for fat globules. Data were analysed using appropriate statistical methods. Results: The Frequency-Volume Chart, turbidimeter and urine dipstick demonstrated significant utility in assessing Prabhūta Mūtratā, Āvila Mūtratā and Madhumeha, respectively. Glycosuria was predominantly observed among diabetic subjects, while ferric chloride testing and microscopic examination for fat globules were negative in both groups. The tools effectively translated qualitative descriptions of Mūtra Parīkṣā into objective and reproducible parameters. Discussion: The study developed practical diagnostic tools for Mūtra Parīkṣā of Vātaja Prameha, improving objectivity and standardization and providing a basis for integrating classical Ayurvedic diagnostic principles with contemporary clinical practice. Keywords: Mūtra Parīkṣā, Vātaja Prameha, Madhumeha, Diabetes Mellitus, Diagnostic Tools