Amapachana, Snehapana, Shodhana - A Promising and Novel Approach to Adverse Effects and Corticosteroid Resistant Condition in Rheumatism - A Case Study

Abstract

Rheumatism, is a general term for group of disorders that cause inflammation in connective tissues particularly the joints and muscles. The most common symptoms are stiffness and pain. Amavata is one of the commonest disorders caused by the impairment of Agni, formation of Ama and vitiation of Vata Dosha where in Ama combines with Vata Dosha and occupies Shleshmasthana such as Amashaya, Asthi and Sandhi. In terms of similarities of clinical symptoms Amavata is understood in parlance with Rheumatoid Arthritis in the present case. The adverse and toxic symptoms like blurring of vision, altered appetite, indigestion and altered bowel habits due to long standing use of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory Drugs, antimetabolites, glucocorticoids and immunosuppression therapies, lead the patient to search for an alternative treatment. With help of Amapachana, Snehapana and Shodhana the patient and their attendees witnessed the stabilization of Agni(metabolism) sooner with regression of arthritis symptoms and withdrawal of glucocorticoids and other immunosuppressants which was the most needed relief they were eagerly waiting for. A significant result was noted after treatment in terms of reduction in level of RA factor from 20iu/MI to 1.1iu/MI and CRP from 28.5mg/L to 3.5mg/L and ESR from 66mm/hr to 42mm/hr. The overall physical, mental and social wellbeing was observed proving significant efficacy of principal based holistic approach of Ayurveda.