Abstract

ROLE OF GANDUSHA KARMA IN THE AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF TUNDIKERI (TONSILLITIS): A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Dr. Bhoomi Verma*, Dr. Komal Jain, Dr. Indu Sharma, Dr. Gulab Chand Bairwa

Abstract

Tundikeri is described in classical Ayurvedic literature among diseases of the oral and throat region. Its clinical features include Shopha (swelling), Toda (pricking pain), Daha (burning sensation) and Paka (suppuration)1. These manifestations share some clinical similarities with tonsillitis, an inflammatory condition of the palatine tonsils that may be caused by viral or bacterial infections. To review the classical Ayurvedic principles of Gandusha Karma and evaluate its potential role in the symptomatic management of Tundikeri, with particular emphasis on its proposed mechanisms and available clinical evidence a review approach was adopted using the classical descriptions and secondary literature supplied for this article. Relevant concepts concerning the definition, classification, indications, procedure, therapeutic rationale and possible physiological mechanisms of Gandusha were examined alongside contemporary understanding of tonsillitis. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Gandusha as the retention of a prescribed liquid in the oral cavity until the appropriate procedural endpoint is reached. Depending on the formulation and therapeutic objective, Gandusha may be classified as Snigdha, Shamana, Shodhana and Ropana. Its proposed relevance in Tundikeri includes local soothing, maintenance of oral hygiene and possible symptomatic relief. Salivary secretion and salivary antimicrobial factors provide plausible physiological explanations for some local effects.

Keywords: Tundikeri, Gandusha Karma, tonsillitis, Ayurveda, Mukha Roga, Oral health.