Abstract

A CLINICAL STUDY TO EVALUATE THE EFFICACY OF PANCHAKARMA TREATMENT IN PAKSHGHATA W.S.R. TO HEMORRHAGIC STROKE: SINGLE CASE STUDY

Prof. Rita Singh*, Dr. Madhu Ranjan, Dr. C. B. Singh, Dr Nitushree and Prof. Yogesh Kumar

ABSTRACT

Pakshaghata is a condition primarily caused by vitiation of Vata Dosha. Patients typically exhibit a loss of function or weakness on one side of the body, with possible involvement of the facial muscles. The prognosis for this condition is contingent upon several factors, including the patient's age (Vaya), strength (Bala), and the specific Dosha involved. In contemporary medicine, the brain is responsible for controlling all motor functions, and cerebrovascular accidents (strokes) are a major cause of functional impairment in the body. Pakshaghata explained in Ayurveda can be co related to CVA. While modern treatments often focus on managing symptoms, Ayurveda takes a more holistic approach by addressing both the underlying causes and the symptoms. Ayurvedic treatment is generally categorized in 2: Samshodhana (purification) and Samshamana (palliative care). Panchakarma is a key Shodhana therapy that consists of five primary procedures aimed at detoxifying the body. In addition to these main treatments, various supportive processes are utilized to provide symptomatic relief by directly targeting the affected areas. Pakshaghata being Vata Nanatmaja Vyadhi is most effectively treated by Mridu Samshodhana (gentle purification) and Vata Shamaak Snehana Chikitsa (oil therapies to pacify Vata). In the case discussed, the patient presented with left-sided Pakshaghata and underwent Panchakarma therapy, which included Nasya (nasal administration of medicated oils), Vasti (medicated enemas), Abhyanga (oil massage), and Swedana (sudation therapy). The initial treatment phase involved Nasya and Basti Karma (enema therapy) for a period of 70 days, leading to significant improvement in the patient's condition.

Keywords: Pakshaghata, CVA, Samshodhana, Samshamana, Vasti Karma, Nasya Karma, Abhyanga, Swedana.