Effect of Vasanthika Vamana Karma on TSH levels - A Successful Case Series
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Effect of Vasanthika Vamana Karma on TSH levels - A Successful Case Series
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Misriya K H
PG Scholar, PG Studies in Department of Panchakarma, Government Ayurveda Medical College, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Bhagyashree
PG Scholar, PG Studies in Department of Panchakarma, Government Ayurveda Medical College, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Ananta S Desai
Professor and HOD, PG Studies in Department of Panchakarma, Government Ayurveda Medical College, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Shaila Borannavar
Associate Professor, PG Studies in Department of Panchakarma, Government Ayurveda Medical College, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Effect of Vasanthika Vamana Karma on TSH levels - A Successful Case Series
Year: 2022 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v9iSuppl2.1075
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Hypothyroidism is a prevalent disorder globally, resulting from insufficient thyroid hormone production by the thyroid gland. The disorder affects various organ systems, leading to a diverse range of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and mood changes. Traditional allopathic treatments often fail to provide satisfactory results, prompting the exploration of alternative approaches, such as Ayurveda. Within Ayurveda, the holistic treatment method known as Panchakarma, particularly Vamana Karma, is explored for its efficacy in treating hypothyroidism, as it aligns with the principles of eliminating excess doshas from the body.
The Role of Vamana Karma in Managing Hypothyroidism
Vamana Karma is a therapeutic process specifically designed to eliminate excess Kapha dosha from the body, which is thought to be a primary imbalance in hypothyroidism. The procedure works by facilitating the expulsion of accumulated doshas, particularly during the Vasanta Ritu (spring season), when the dosha accumulation is most prominent. The study highlights that six patients diagnosed with hypothyroidism underwent this treatment, leading to a significant decrease in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and an improvement in clinical symptoms. The treatment involved a series of preparatory steps, including Deepana Pachana (digestive enhancement) and Snehapana (oil therapy), before employing Vamana Karma to effectively manage the disorder.
Understanding Kapha Imbalance and Ayurvedic Perspectives
In Ayurveda, hypothyroidism can be associated with the concept of Bahudoshavastha, indicating a disorder rooted in the imbalance of multiple doshas, primarily Kapha. The symptoms linked to hypothyroidism resemble those of Kapha dosha disturbance, such as weight gain, lethargy, and mental irritation. The Ayurvedic approach emphasizes a thorough understanding of the underlying doshic imbalances and treats them through Samshodhana, or purification. This perspective advocates for a comprehensive treatment plan that not only alleviates symptoms but addresses the root causes of the disorder, thereby enhancing the overall treatment efficacy in managing hypothyroidism.
Conclusion
The study concludes that Vamana Karma, particularly when practiced during the Vasanta Ritu, demonstrates significant potential in managing hypothyroidism effectively, with minimal side effects reported among participants. The findings underscore the relevance of Ayurvedic principles in treating modern-day lifestyle-related disorders and highlight the need for further research to validate its effectiveness. This clinical evaluation supports the notion that integrating traditional Ayurvedic practices can provide a holistic and satisfactory method for managing hypothyroidism and improving patients' quality of life.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is hypothyroidism and its impact on health?
Hypothyroidism is a metabolic disorder where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, leading to various symptoms affecting multiple organ systems. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and mood swings, significantly impacting overall health.
How does Vasantika Vamana Karma help in hypothyroidism treatment?
Vasantika Vamana Karma is an Ayurvedic treatment aiming to eliminate excess Kapha dosha. By doing so, it helps in reducing thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and alleviating symptoms of hypothyroidism effectively without notable side effects.
What were the results of the Vamana Karma treatment in this study?
The study showed a significant reduction in TSH levels from an average of 11.14 mIU/ml to 6.2 mIU/ml after the treatment. This indicates the effectiveness of Vamana Karma in managing hypothyroidism.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Effect of Vasanthika Vamana Karma on TSH levels - A Successful Case Series�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Vamana:
Vamana is a therapeutic procedure in Ayurveda used for the elimination of excess doshas, particularly Kapha, through induced vomiting. It is part of the Panchakarma detoxification techniques designed to cleanse the body of toxins.
2) Karma (Karman):
Karma in this text refers to therapeutic procedures or actions performed to achieve a specific medical outcome. Examples include Vamana Karma (emesis therapy) intended to cleanse excess Kapha Dosha from the body.
3) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental bodily humors in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each Dosha governs specific physiological functions and imbalances in these can lead to various ailments.
4) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga refers to an Ayurvedic massage technique using warm oil, which helps in relaxing muscles, increasing blood circulation, and eliminating toxins. It is often used prior to procedures like Vamana to prepare the body.
5) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three Doshas governing structure and stability of the body. It is associated with earth and water elements and can lead to health issues when in excess, such as in hypothyroidism.
6) Taila (Thaila):
Taila is the term for oil used in various Ayurvedic treatments such as massages (Abhyanga). Specific oils like Ksheerabala taila are used for their particular therapeutic properties.
7) Yoga:
Yoga in this context refers to formulations or compounds used in Ayurvedic treatments, such as the Madanaphala yoga used in Vamana Karma.
8) Hair:
Hair loss is a common symptom of hypothyroidism, addressed in the case studies using Vamana Karma to help restore balance.
9) Nadi (Nadin):
Nadi refers to channels or pathways in the body, and Nadi Sweda is a sweat-inducing therapy used to prepare the body for treatments like Vamana.
10) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kaphadosha signifies the Dosha associated with stability and lubrication but can cause issues like lethargy and weight gain when imbalanced.
11) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine focusing on balancing the body's doshas (like Kapha, Pitta, and Vata) through various treatments, including Panchakarma therapies like Vamana Karma.
12) Vati:
Vati refers to Ayurvedic tablets or pills. In the article, Chitrakadi Vati is used for Deepana Pachana to prepare the patient for Vamana Karma.
13) Pain:
Pain is a common symptom in hypothyroidism and can manifest in joints and muscles. The case studies show how Ayurvedic treatments aim to relieve these symptoms.
14) Tilataila (Tila-taila):
Tila-taila is sesame oil often used in Ayurvedic massages like Abhyanga to nourish and detoxify the body.
15) Vasantika (Vasamtika):
Vasantika refers to the spring season, during which Vaman Karma is said to be particularly effective due to the natural aggravation of Kapha Dosha.
16) Disease:
Disease in this context refers to imbalances in the body's doshas leading to conditions like hypothyroidism, treated through Ayurvedic methods.
17) Tila:
Tila means sesame; its oil (Tila-taila) is used in Ayurvedic massages and therapies for its nourishing and detoxifying properties.
18) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to symptoms or signs of a disease. In hypothyroidism, common lakshanas include weight gain, hair loss, and fatigue.
19) Ritu (Rtu):
Ritu refers to the seasons in Ayurvedic medicine. Treatments like Vamana Karma are often performed during specific seasons, such as Vasantika Ritu (spring).
20) Samshodhana (Samsodhana):
Samshodhana refers to purification therapies in Ayurveda aimed at eliminating toxins and doshas from the body, such as Vamana Karma for Kapha Dosha.
21) Irritation:
Irritation, particularly mental irritation, is a symptom of hypothyroidism noted in the case studies that has shown improvement after Ayurvedic treatment.
22) Galaganda (Gala-ganda, Galagamda):
Galaganda refers to a swelling in the neck region mentioned in Ayurvedic texts, analogous to goiter or thyroid gland disorders like hypothyroidism.
23) Varunadi (Varuna-adi):
Varunadi refers to an Ayurvedic formulation, such as Varunadi Gritha, used for Snehapana in preparing patients for Vamana.
24) Vasanta (Vasamta):
Vasanta refers to the spring season in Ayurveda, ideal for performing therapies like Vamana Karma to clear accumulated Kapha Dosha.
25) Kaphaja:
Kaphaja relates to disorders caused primarily by an imbalance in Kapha Dosha. The term is used in conditions like Kaphaja Galaganda, identified with hypothyroidism in this context.
26) Snigdha:
Snigdha means oily or unctuous quality, often mentioned in the context of diet and therapies to balance certain doshas.
27) Samana (Shamana):
Samana refers to balancing therapies in Ayurveda, aimed to harmonize doshas and improve overall health.
28) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi is the term for disease or ailment in Ayurveda. Hypothyroidism is conceptualized as a type of Anukta Vyadhi (unspecified disease) involving Kapha Dosha.
29) Sneha:
Sneha refers to oils or fats used internally or externally in Ayurvedic therapies for lubrication and dosha balancing.
30) Shaka (Saka):
Shaka indicates extremities or peripheral tissues in Ayurvedic terminology, where doshas can be drawn before being expelled through Panchakarma procedures.
31) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the bodily tissues in Ayurveda, like Rasa and Medha, which can be affected by dosha imbalances causing conditions like hypothyroidism.
32) India:
India is referenced in the study for its higher prevalence rates of hypothyroidism compared to other regions, emphasizing the country's relevance in Ayurvedic study.
33) Agni:
Agni signifies the digestive fire in Ayurveda essential for metabolic processes. Dysfunctions like Agnimandya (weak digestion) can lead to hypothyroidism.
34) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa is the first of the seven dhatus (tissues) and is often affected in conditions like hypothyroidism, leading to symptoms such as fatigue and poor nutrition.
35) Food:
Food (Ahara) plays an essential role in Ayurvedic treatment, used in dietary interventions to manage dosha imbalances and conditions like hypothyroidism.
36) Mud:
Mood swings are among the symptoms of hypothyroidism. The condition often involves imbalances in mental states alongside physical symptoms.
37) Bronchial asthma:
Bronchial asthma is a co-morbidity in one of the case studies presented, showcasing the extensive impact of dosha imbalances.
38) Saindhavalavana (Saindhava-lavana, Saimdhavalavana):
Saindhava-lavana is rock salt used in various Ayurvedic remedies, including Vamana Yoga formulations, for its therapeutic benefits.
39) Paschat-karma:
Paschat-karma refers to post-treatment procedures in Ayurveda that help in recuperation and maintaining the benefits achieved from primary therapies like Vamana.
40) Agnidushti (Agnidusti, Agni-dushti):
Agni-dushti refers to the dysfunction of digestive fire, leading to metabolic issues and disorders such as hypothyroidism.
41) Agnimandya (Agni-mandya, Agnimamdya):
Agnimandya means diminished digestive power, which can lead to the accumulation of toxins and dosha imbalances, contributing to conditions like hypothyroidism.
42) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasa-dhatu is the primary tissue nourished by digestion, often impacted in hypothyroid conditions, showing symptoms like fatigue and general debility.
43) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
Yastimadhu, or licorice, is frequently used in Ayurvedic formulations such as the Madanaphala Vamaka Yoga to balance doshas and aid in detoxification.
44) Balataila (Bala-taila):
Bala-taila refers to oil formulations containing Bala (Sida cordifolia) used in Ayurvedic massages to strengthen the body and enhance recovery.
45) Discussion:
Discussion in the text refers to the detailed analysis and interpretation of treatment outcomes and their relevance to Ayurvedic principles and modern medical findings.
46) Saindhava (Saimdhava):
Saindhava is rock salt utilized in various Ayurvedic therapies, particularly in formulations for Vamana Karma, owing to its purifying properties.
47) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari is a medicinal plant used in various Ayurvedic formulations for its rejuvenating and balancing effects, especially for treating hormonal imbalances.
48) Samprapti:
Samprapti in Ayurveda refers to the pathogenesis of a disease, detailing the sequence of events from dosha imbalance to symptom manifestation.
49) Karnataka:
Karnataka is the location of the Government Ayurveda Medical College in Bengaluru, where the study on Vamana Karma took place.
50) Dhatvagni (Dhatu-agni):
Dhatvagni refers to the digestive fire of the tissues, which if impaired (Dhatvagni-mandya), results in conditions like hypothyroidism.
51) Utklishta (Utklista, Ut-klishta):
Utklishta refers to the aggravated doshas that need to be eliminated from the body, often achieved through procedures like Vamana Karma.
52) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the imbalance of doshas causing them to deviate from their natural state, leading to various disorders including hypothyroidism.
53) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata is one of the classical Ayurvedic authors who has mentioned Vamana Karma as a treatment for Kapha-dominant conditions like Kaphaja Galaganda.
54) Prabhava:
Prabhava refers to the unique, often specific, effect of an Ayurvedic substance or treatment beyond its general properties, contributing to its efficacy.
55) Medicine:
Medicine in this context refers to the Ayurvedic formulations and methods used for treating hypothyroidism, such as Vamana Karma.
56) Snehana:
Snehana refers to the process of internal or external oleation (application of oils) in Ayurveda aimed to prepare the body for Panchakarma therapies.
57) Pippali (Pippalin):
Pippali or long pepper is a vital ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations, including those used in Vamana Karma for its digestive and purifying properties.
58) Chennai:
Chennai is mentioned as one of the coastal cities in India with the prevalence of hypothyroidism, highlighting regional variations in disease occurrence.
59) Vyavayi:
Vyavayi refers to a property of an Ayurvedic substance that quickly spreads throughout the body before undergoing digestion.
60) Sthana:
Sthana refers to a specific location in the body where a particular dosha or tissue predominates. For instance, the neck is a Kapha Dosha Sthana.
61) Ananta (Anamta):
Ananta S Desai is listed as one of the authors of the study, contributing to the research on the effectiveness of Vamana Karma in treating hypothyroidism.
62) Koshtha (Kostha):
Kostha refers to the gastrointestinal tract or the core body system where doshas can be brought to for elimination through therapies like Vamana Karma.
63) Shaila (Saila):
Shaila Borannavar is an Associate Professor and co-author of the study, involved in the research presented in the article.
64) Lavana:
Lavana refers to salt, used in various Ayurvedic preparations for its unique properties, including in detoxification and digestive therapies.
65) Morata:
Morata is one of the ingredients in the Varunadi Gritha used for Snehapana in preparation for Vamana Karma.
66) Varuna:
Varuna is a herb used for its Kapha-meda-hara properties and is included in Varunadi Gritha for preparing patients for Vamana Karma.
67) Edema (Oedema):
Oedema or swelling is a symptom of hypothyroidism that can be addressed through Vamana Karma as outlined in the case studies.
68) Vikasin (Vikasi, Vikashin):
Vikasi refers to an Ayurvedic property of substances that helps in breaking down and spreading through the body tissues, aiding in detoxification.
69) Nature:
Nature refers to the lifestyle or physical activity levels of the patients involved in the studies, influencing their dosha balance and treatment outcomes.
70) Phala:
Phala generally means fruit, but in the context of the article, it refers to Madanaphala used in Vamana Karma formulations.
71) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with fire and water elements, governing metabolism and digestion.
72) Madhu:
Madhu or honey is an ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations, including the Vamana Karma compound, due to its balancing properties.
73) Mukha:
Mukha means mouth, the route through which toxins are expelled during Vamana Karma in Ayurvedic treatment.
74) Gulma:
Gulma refers to abdominal tumors or lumps and is mentioned in Ayurveda as one of the conditions treated by formulations like Varunadi Gritha.
75) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna refers to heat or hot quality, often describing the nature of Ayurvedic treatments or substances that balance cold (Kapha) dosha.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 96]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Effect of Vasanthika Vamana Karma on TSH levels - A Successful Case Series�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Panchakarma, Snehapana, Kaphadosha, Clinical feature, Seasonal variation, Vamana Karma, Bahudoshavastha, Clinical Practice, Ayurvedic Perspective, Weight gain, Ayurvedic medication, Low back ache, Deepana Pachana, Vasantika Vamana Karma, Nadi Sweda, Hypothyroidism, Samshodhana Karma, Treatment principle, Haematological test, Primary hypothyroidism, Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), Kaphaja Galaganda, Generalized debility, Secondary hypothyroidism, Tertiary hypothyroidism.