Use of Ayurvedic Whole System in Rheumatoid Arthritis | 06 Sep 2024

Source: PIB

Why in News?

Recently, a study highlighted the effectiveness of the Ayurvedic Whole System (AWS) in managing Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune disorder.

• The research shows that the AWS not only reduces RA symptoms but also helps restore a normal metabolic balance in patients.
• It presents a promising complementary approach to conventional medical treatments.

What are Key Facts About Rheumatoid Arthritis?

• About: RA is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the lining of joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.
  • In some people, the condition can damage a wide variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart and blood vessels.
  • It is an autoimmune disorder. It happens when the immune system doesn’t work properly and attacks the lining of the joints, called the synovium.
• Significance of the Study: It supports the Ayurvedic concept of 'Samprapti Vighatan,' where the disease-causing process is dismantled, and the body's 'Doshas' (bio-energies) are brought back to balance.
  • The research is pivotal as it explores the potential for pathology reversal in RA using an Ayurvedic whole-system approach.
• Key Clinical Improvements Observed:
  • Disease Activity Reduction: There was a notable reduction in the Disease Activity Score, a critical measure for assessing RA severity.
  • Decrease in Joint Inflammation: Both the total number of swollen and tender joints were reduced among patients receiving AWS treatment.
  • Reduction in Toxins: The Ama Activity Measure (AAM) Score, which evaluates toxins in the body, showed significant reduction post-intervention, indicating decreased systemic inflammation and toxicity.
  • Metabolic Profile Shifts: Post-AWS treatment, imbalanced metabolic markers began to shift towards normal levels observed in healthy controls, suggesting a return to a more balanced metabolic state.
• First-of-its-Kind Evidence: This study is the first to clearly demonstrate the clinical efficacy of AWS in managing RA.
  • It highlights the dual benefit of symptom reduction and metabolic normalisation, potentially leading to long-term positive outcomes for patients.

What is the Ayurvedic Whole System?

• About: Ayurveda is the time tested traditional system of medicine of India. 
  • The term 'Ayurveda' meaning 'the knowledge of life' comprises two Sanskrit words viz 'Ayu' meaning 'Life' and 'Veda' meaning 'Knowledge' or 'Science'.
  • Ayurveda is a whole-body (holistic) system of medicine. It takes a natural approach to all aspects of health and well-being.
• Ayurvedic Strategy: Ayurveda is based on the idea that each person has certain life forces (doshas) and everything in the universe is connected. 
  • An imbalance in one area can affect another. 
  • When the imbalance is not fixed, disease and illness can occur. 
  • Ayurveda mostly uses nutrition, lifestyle changes, and natural treatments. 
  • These are used to support balance and a return to health.
• Three Principal Energies (Doshas): Ayurveda identifies three basic types of energy or functional principles that are present in everyone and everything. 
  • Vata: It governs functions like breathing, blinking, muscle movement, and the circulation of fluids. 
  • Pitta: It governs digestion, absorption, nutrition, and body temperature. 
  • Kapha: It governs the body's structural components, lubricates joints, moisturises the skin, and maintains immunity.