Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF AMAVATA (RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS) THROUGH PANCHAKARMA AND INTERNAL MEDICATION: A CASE REPORT

Dr. Kanishka Gaur*, Dr. Shivani Mahajan

Abstract

Amavata is an inflammatory disorder described in Ayurveda, arising from the disruption of Ama and Vata. It closely resembles the modern medical condition known as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and is considered related to it. The disease is characterized by pain, swelling, stiffness, tenderness, and limited joint movement affecting multiple joints, significantly impacting the person’s daily life. Acharya Madhavakara provided a comprehensive knowledge of Amavata in the Madhava Nidana. According to Ayurvedic principles, managing Amavata focuses on addressing root causes through Ama digestion (Ama Pachana), strengthening digestive fire (Agni Deepana), balancing Vata (Vata Shamana), and employing Panchakarma therapies. Among the classical Panchakarma methods, Baluka Sweda and Vaitarana Basti are commonly prescribed in this case. This case report examines the clinical outcomes of a combined treatment approach using Baluka Sweda, Vaitarana Basti as per the Yoga Basti regimen, and internal Ayurvedic medications in a 50-year-old female diagnosed with Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis). Following the intervention, the patient showed marked improvement across all major symptoms— reduced joint pain, swelling, morning stiffness, and enhanced functional capacity—along with a notable decline in Rheumatoid Factor levels from 113 IU/mL to 3.60 IU/mL.

Keywords: Amavata, Baluka Sweda, Vaitarana Basti, Yoga Basti, Ayurvedic Medicine, Mandagni.