A fortified cereal and Ayurveda herb-based diet (Guducyadi krushara) for Sickle cell disease (~Pandu) - A case report

Abstract

Introduction: Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is considered as Beeja-Dustijanya and Pitta Dosha pradhan Vyadhi, which is counter with a drug-diet plan to alleviate the Crisis and symptoms of SCD, as the genetic origin of the disease makes it non-curable.  A diet made with herbs having antioxidant, rejuvenating properties is core for the treatment of disease, and "Guducyadi Krushra" is one among them. In the present study, a 12-year-old female child (diagnosed case of Sickle Cell Disease) was treated for 30 days with the Guducyadi Krushara as add-on dietetic management along with conventional therapy with hydroxyurea and folic acid. Methods: In this study, Guduci is taken as the primary Immunomodulator, processed to form Krushra made up of rice and green gram, and prescribed as a diet regimen for patients with Sickle Cell anemia. Results:  There is significant relief in the symptoms of crisis, pain, fatigue, and loss of appetite in the patient treated with Guducyadi Krushra as Pathya Aahara. which was not observed with conventional therapy alone. Discussion: The antioxidant, Anti-sickling, and rejuvenating properties of Guduci help to alleviate the symptoms of SCD and help to maintain the Quality of life of the patient. It promotes the healthy RBCs and prevents the sickling. Additionally, Krushara (Gruel) is easy to digest and has nutritive value and is accepted in different ethnic populations of India and hence easy to administer with good acceptance by children. It helps to maintain adherence and compliance to the therapy, which yields results. Conclusion: The use of Ayurveda herbs with diet as a regime will help to improve the clinical outcome and integration approach to reduce the burden of diseases like childhood SCD.