National Journal of Research in Ayurved Science

Samangadi Churna in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A critical review integrating classical Ayurvedic concepts with contemporary evidence.

2026-10-06T05:07:02+00:00

Background. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder marked by persistent inattention and/or hyperactivity–impulsivity affecting daily functioning. Although Ayurveda has not directly described equivalent for ADHD, its manifestations may be explored through concepts such as Unmada, Manas, Buddhi, Manovaha Srotas, and Medhya-Rasayana. Samangadi Churna, a classical Ayurvedic formulation described Kashyapa Samhita, Sutrasthana, Lehaadhyaya. in containing Samanga, Triphala, Brahmi, Bala, Atibala, and Chitraka, is traditionally administered with Go-Ghrita and Madhu for supporting Medha, Ayu, and Bala. This review critically examines its possible relevance in ADHD management in light of classical Ayurvedic principles and available contemporary evidence.

Objective. To review the classical description, evaluate the potential pharmacological rationale, assess the available contemporary clinical evidence on Samangadi Churna in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and identify directions for future research.

Methods. A narrative review was undertaken following the principles of the SANRA (Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles) framework. Classical information was obtained from the Kashyapa Samhita; Sutrasthana; lehaadhyaya, while contemporary literature was searched through PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and relevant full-text databases. The search employed combinations of the terms “Samangadi Churna,” “Samangadi Leha,” “attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder,” “ADHD”, “Unmada,” “Medhya-Rasayana,” and “Bacopa monnieri.”

Review summary. ADHD is not described as a distinct disorder in classical Ayurvedic texts; however,its clinical manifestations may be conceptually correlated with Unmada, particularly the disturbance of Dhi, Dhriti, and Smriti associated with Manovibhrama. Within this framework, Samangadi Churna, described in the Kashyapa Samhita, contains Samanga, Triphala, Brahmi, Bala, Atibala, and Chitraka and is administered with Go-Ghrita and Madhu, with classical emphasis on supporting Medha, Ayu, and Bala. Its therapeutic rationale can therefore be viewed within a Medhya–Balya–Rasayana properties. Contemporary evidence, however, is predominantly available for individual ingredients rather than the complete formulation. Bacopa monnieri has demonstrated cognitive and behavioural effects in human studies, including those addressing attention and hyperactivity, whereas Rubia cordifolia, Sida cordifolia, Abutilon indicum, and Plumbago zeylanica are supported mainly by preclinical evidence involving antioxidant, neuroprotective, neurotransmitter-related, and digestive mechanisms. Triphala has also been investigated for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and microbiome-related effects. Although the gut–brain axis is increasingly recognised as a potential area of relevance in ADHD, evidence remains evolving. Overall, direct clinical evidence for the efficacy of Samangadi Churna in ADHD requires major clinical trials.

Conclusion. Samangadi Churna demonstrates a rational basis within classical Ayurvedic principles and may have potential through the combined effects of its constituent ingredients. However, current evidence requires more research to establish its efficacy as a treatment for ADHD. Further research should focus on formulation standardization, pediatric safety, dose optimization, and well-designed randomized controlled trials employing validated ADHD assessment tools.

Anna, Jala and Vayu as Prana: An Ayurvedic Review of the Three Fundamental Life-Sustaining Elements

2026-08-23T13:03:01+00:00

Abstract

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes the preservation of health through harmony between the body, mind, senses, and soul. The maintenance of this harmony depends primarily on the uninterrupted availability of Anna (food), Jala (water), and Vayu (air), which are regarded as the fundamental supporters of Pr??a, the vital force responsible for sustaining life. Pr??a is not merely the process of respiration but represents the dynamic life energy governing all physiological, psychological, and metabolic activities. Proper nourishment through wholesome food, adequate hydration with pure water, and continuous intake of clean air collectively maintain Agni, nourish the Dh?tus, preserve Ojas, and regulate the functions of V?ta Do?a, thereby ensuring health and longevity. Conversely, impairment in the quality or quantity of any of these three essential elements disturbs homeostasis, weakens immunity, promotes the formation of ?ma, and predisposes an individual to various diseases. Although described through different philosophical concepts, modern biomedical science also recognizes nutrition, hydration, and oxygen as the three indispensable requirements for cellular survival and physiological homeostasis. This review explores the Ayurvedic concept of Anna, Jala, and V?yu as the primary sustainers of Pr??a, discusses their physiological importance according to classical Ayurvedic principles, and correlates these concepts with contemporary scientific understanding. The review also highlights the significance of these principles in preventive medicine and lifestyle modification for maintaining holistic health.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Prana, Anna, Jala, Vayu, Ahara, Preventive Medicine, Lifestyle, Holistic Health.

Aartav Vichar: Principles of Menstrual and Reproductive Health in Ayurveda - A Comprehensive Literary Review

2026-09-26T05:33:51+00:00

The Ayurvedic conceptual framework of Aartav Vichar represents a sophisticated, multidimensional understanding of female reproductive physiology, pathology, and therapeutics. In classical treatises, the term Aartava occupies a dual position, signifying both the transient monthly menstrual discharge (Raja) and the female reproductive germ cell or ovum (Stree-beeja). This literature review compiles and synthesizes classical views regarding the etymology, synonyms, physiological characteristics, metabolic origin, and quantity of Raja and Aartava from core scriptures including the Sushruta Samhita, Charaka Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Ashtanga Sangraha, Harita Samhita, and Bhavaprakasha. It systematically analyzes the eight pathological vitiations of menstrual blood (Aartava-dushti), detailing their distinct clinical features, prognostic factors (Sadhyasadhyatva), and customized therapeutic protocols. Pervasive disorders such as deficient menstruation (Aartava-kshaya) and excessive flow (Aartava-vriddhi) are also explored alongside their Ayurvedic treatments. By integrating purificatory therapies (Shodhana), specialized intrauterine enemas (Uttarabasti), and targeted herbal formulations, Ayurvedic science provides a highly individualized and clinically effective approach for managing gynecological pathology and associated infertility (Abeeja states).

Endocrine disruptors and their Agadatantra perceptions

2026-09-26T07:34:40+00:00

Endocrine disruptors are exogenous substances that interfere with the normal functioning of the endocrine system and lead to adverse developmental, reproductive, neurological, metabolic, and immunological effects in humans and animals. In recent decades, industrialization, pesticide use, plastic pollution, cosmetic chemicals, and food contaminants have increased human exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Modern toxicology recognizes them as significant environmental health hazards. Ayurveda, particularly the branch of Agadatantra, provides a unique perspective on chronic low-dose toxicity through concepts such as Gara Visha, Dushi Visha, Viruddha Ahara, and environmental contamination. This article explores endocrine disruptors from both modern scientific and Ayurvedic viewpoints and correlates their toxicodynamic actions with Agadatantra principles.

Concept of Tridosha and homeostasis regulation : A Kriya Sharir interpretation.

2026-09-18T10:52:44+00:00

Ayurveda defines health as a state of equilibrium of Dosha, Dhatu, Mala, and Agni. Among these, Tridoshas Vata, Pitta, and Kapha act as the primary regulators of all physiological functions. Modern physiology defines health in terms of homeostasis i.e. the maintenance of a constant internal environment. Though originating from different backgrounds, both systems focuses on balance, regulation, and adaptive mechanisms. Relevant literature was searched from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus using keywords related to Tridosha, Vata, Pitta, Kapha, homeostasis, and physiology. Relevant research articles, review articles, and classical Ayurvedic texts were selected and narratively synthesized. This review explores the conceptual and functional correlation between Tridosha equilibrium and homeostasis by analysing classical Ayurvedic texts and modern physiological principles. Vata is correlated with neural and regulatory mechanisms, Pitta with metabolic and enzymatic activities, and Kapha with structural integrity and anabolic processes. Understanding Tridosha through the lens of homeostasis offers an integrative framework that enhances physiological knowledge, clinical assessment, and preventive healthcare strategies.

An Integrative Ayurvedic and Conventional Approach to Clinically Interpreted Ruddhapatha Kamala

2026-09-18T11:03:28+00:00

Background: Kamala is an Ayurvedic clinical entity characterized by yellowish discoloration of the eyes, urine, and body tissues. Ruddhapatha Kamala is described in the context of obstruction of the normal movement of aggravated Pitta by Kapha and provides a conceptual Ayurvedic correlation for jaundice associated with impaired biliary flow. This case illustrates the application of this Ayurvedic diagnostic assessment alongside contemporary clinical and biochemical assessment.

Case Presentation: A 20-year-old male presented with yellowish discoloration of the eyes and urine, decreased appetite, and leg cramps, with no significant past medical history. Examination revealed icterus and clay-coloured stool. Ultrasonography demonstrated mild hepatosplenomegaly, with a liver span of 15.1 cm and splenic length of 12.8 cm, along with mild pseudothickening of the gallbladder wall. Ultrasonography did not document definite structural biliary obstruction. Initial investigations revealed total serum bilirubin of 10.19 mg/dL (direct 6.48 mg/dL; indirect 3.71 mg/dL), SGOT 311 IU/L, and SGPT 330 IU/L. Urinary bile salts and bile pigments were positive, while HBsAg and HIV were negative. Based on the clinical presentation, Ayurvedic assessment, biochemical findings, and imaging, the condition was interpreted as Ruddhapatha Kamala. The patient received conventional supportive treatment concurrently with Ayurvedic medicines, including Arogyavardhini Vati, Kamdudha Vati, Triphala Churna, Trikatu Churna, Sharpunkha–Amalaki Churna, and Bhumyamalaki Swarasa. By Day 5, total bilirubin decreased to 5.30 mg/dL and SGOT to 67 IU/L, although SGPT was 337 IU/L; urinary bile salts, bile pigments, and urobilinogen were absent. By Day 8, total bilirubin further decreased to 2.94 mg/dL, with marked symptomatic improvement and minimal residual weakness.

Conclusion: This case demonstrates substantial clinical and biochemical improvement during integrative management of a patient interpreted as having Ruddhapatha Kamala. The case highlights the potential utility of integrating Ayurvedic pathophysiological assessment with objective biochemical and imaging parameters.

Ayurvedic management of chronic rhinitis (vata-kaphaja pratishyaya) in an eleven-year-old boy with pratimarsha nasya and shamana chikitsa: A case study

2026-10-07T14:39:33+00:00

Background: Chronic rhinitis in children disturbs sleep, school performance and quality of life, and conventional treatment relies on long-term antihistamines and nasal steroids. In Ayurveda, a chronic course with sneezing, watery discharge and cough with expectoration corresponds to Vata-Kaphaja Pratishyaya.

Aim and objectives: To document the Ayurvedic management of an eleven-year-old boy with chronic rhinitis and to describe the clinical and laboratory response over 28 days.

Observations: The boy had a two to three year history of running nose, recurrent sneezing and cough with expectoration. Baseline total nasal symptom score was 10 of 12, absolute eosinophil count 720 cells per microlitre, serum total immunoglobulin E 310 kIU per litre and nasal smear eosinophils 15 percent. Radiography of the paranasal sinuses showed turbinate hypertrophy and mild maxillary mucosal thickening. He was admitted for four days and received Gojihvadi kwatha orally, Pratimarsha nasya with Anu taila, steam inhalation with arka of Tulsi, Vasa and Nilgiri, and Sitopaladi churna with honey, along with dust avoidance and dietary advice.

Main findings: The symptom score fell to 6, 3 and 0 on days 7, 14 and 28. Cough resolved by day 14. Eosinophil count fell to 380 cells per microlitre and immunoglobulin E to 185 kIU per litre on day 28. Oral medicines were stopped and daily Nasya was continued as a preventive measure.

Conclusion: Symptoms and allergic markers improved alongside the Ayurvedic regimen. However, the single uncontrolled case, the concurrent avoidance measures and the absence of allergen-specific testing preclude attributing the change to the treatment.