A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON THE ROLE OF VIRECHANA KARMA AND VAITARANA BASTI IN THE MANAGEMENT OF AMAVATA

Background: Amavata, described in laghutrayi, is a condition closely resembling rheumatoid arthritis in modern medicine, characterized by the accumulation of ama (toxins) in the joints, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness. Virechana Karma (purgation therapy) and Vaitarana Basti (medicated enema) are panchakarma therapies used in the management of Amavata. These therapies aim to remove ama from the body, balance Vata dosha, and reduce inflammation in the joints. This systematic review, conducted following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guideline. Objective: To evaluate the scientific evidence supporting the use of Virechana Karma and Vaitarana Basti in the management of Amavata based on clinical studies. Methods: A systematic review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines, which involved PubMed, Google Scholar, AYUSH Research Portal, and other relevant databases. Inclusion criteria were clinical studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), case report published between 2015 and 2024, which reported the use of Virechana Karma and Vaitarana Basti in Amavata management. Studies not meeting these criteria were excluded. Results: A total number of 20 studies were included in this. Evidence indicates that both therapies provide significant relief in pain, inflammation, joint stiffness. Virechana primarily work on Pitta and ama through its property, while Vaitarana Basti targets Vata dosha and reducing stiffness and promoting joint mobility.