Effect of Virechana Karma, Murva Dahaya Kashaya, Bimtambaru Sweda and Bimtambaru Patra Lepa on Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis) – A Case Study

Abstract

Amavata is a disease caused by vitiation of Vata and Kapha Dosha. Amavata can be correlated with rheumatoid arthritis with pain, joint swelling, and stiffness in small joints of the hands, feet and wrists being present. Virechana Karma is prescribed in treatment of Amavata. Murva Dahaya Kashaya, Bimtambaru Sweda and Bimtambaru Patra Lepa are prescribed in treatment of Amavata in Sri Lanka.  No known scientific study has been carried out to evaluate the effect of these treatments.  A 53-year old woman suffering from Amavata for 10 years was treated for 17 days with Virechana Karma using Eranda Taila followed by oral administration of Murva Dahaya Kashaya and external application of Bimtambaru Sweda and Bimtambaru Patra Lepa. Severity of the symptoms were recorded using a specially prepared grading scale. After Virechana Karma, anorexia was relieved by 100%, discomfort at flexion of inter phalangeal joints by 33.3% and body ache by 50%. None of the other symptoms were reduced. After completion of entire treatment, body ache, fever, pain, discomfort at flexion of inter phalangeal joints and fatigue were completely relived. General functional capacity enhanced and haemotological parameters (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate and C-Reactive protein) reached normal levels. According to American College of Rheumatology 2010 Criteria, Criterion Score of this patient was seven before treatment and three after completion of entire treatment. It is concluded that selected treatment regimen is a potentially beneficial therapy for Amavata (rheumatoid arthritis).