Abstract

ROLE OF PANCHAKARMA IN AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS: AN EVIDENCE-BASED REVIEW

*Dr. Abhijit Ganesh Mayane

Abstract

Autoimmune disorders are chronic inflammatory diseases characterized by aberrant immune responses against selfantigens, leading to progressive tissue destruction and systemic complications. The global burden of autoimmune diseases has increased substantially over recent decades due to genetic, environmental, infectious, and lifestyle-related factors. Conventional treatment primarily involves corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics; however, long-term therapy is associated with adverse effects, recurrence, and high economic burden. Ayurveda correlates autoimmune disorders with conditions involving Ama, Agnimandya, Srotodushti, and Tridosha imbalance, particularly Vata-Pitta predominance. Panchakarma, the bio-purificatory therapy of Ayurveda, aims to eliminate morbid Doshas, restore metabolic balance, and improve immune homeostasis. This review critically evaluates the role of Panchakarma in autoimmune disorders through classical Ayurvedic concepts and contemporary scientific evidence. Therapies such as Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Nasya, and Raktamokshana demonstrate anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, detoxifying, and rejuvenating effects. Clinical studies suggest improvement in rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and autoimmune neurological disorders following Panchakarma interventions. Panchakarma may serve as an effective integrative therapeutic approach alongside conventional medicine. Further multicentric randomized controlled trials are required to establish standardized treatment protocols and mechanistic validation.

Keywords: Panchakarma, Autoimmune Disorders, Ayurveda, Immunomodulation, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriasis, Integrative Medicine.