Efficacy of Langhana with Saptamushtika Yusha in the Treatment of Aama in Aamavata with special reference to Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

In developing societies, the nutritional patterns collectively termed the ‘western diet’ including high fat and cholesterol, high protein, high sugar and excess salt intake as well as frequent consumption of processed and fast food promote obesity, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome which are now recognized as due to chronic inflammatory processes in body. According to the ancient Acharyas, above mentioned dietary habits are the common hetus responsible for the Agnidushti and development of diseases like Aamavata. The common signs and symptoms of Aamavata have similarities with Rheumatoid Arthritis which is an autoimmune disorder of unknown etiology. Aamavata has been a challenging problem to the medical field. Various treatment protocols are applied in this disease with partial success. The ancient Acharyas have mentioned the Langhana along with its different possible ways as a first Upakrama for the treatment of Aamavata. In present clinical study, five patients of clinically proven Aamavata were treated with Laghu Aahara Rupi Langhana by using Saptamushtika Yusha for seven days. All clinical Nidanadi Ayurvediya parameters and American College of Rheumatology guidelines for Rheumatoid Arthritis were followed. The assessment of symptoms was done with the help of Disease Activity Score (DAS). Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) which is increased in most of the chronic inflammatory conditions was also investigated. It was observed that there was a marked reduction in ESR along with the considerable relief in signs and symptoms of patient. The results are encouraging and indicate the efficacy of Langhana with Saptamushtika Yusha over Aamavata.