Abstract

LITERATURE STUDY ON AMAVATA ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA

Deepika Agrawal* and Ashwini Sharma

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Abstract

Amavata is derived from the combination of the terms "Ama" and "Vata". The problem frequently arises from the disruption of Agni, such as Jatharagni, Dhatvagni, Bhutagni, and others. The formation of Ama leads to its circulation throughout the body via the vitiated Vata, where it accumulates in certain areas such as the Amashaya, Asthisandhi, and others. This accumulation results in pain, stiffness, and swelling in both small and major joints, ultimately causing lameness. The scientific presentation of Amavata closely resembles the specific spectrum of Rheumatological conditions known as Rheumatoid Arthritis, based on their shared scientific characteristics. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a persistent inflammatory condition that affects multiple joints symmetrically, causing deformity and systemic complications. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the immune system attacking healthy body tissues. Although the exact origin is not yet known, certain genetic and environmental factors influence the risk of developing RA. Amavata poses significant challenges for clinicians due to its chronic nature, incurability, complications, and morbidity. In allopathic treatment, NSAIDs and steroids are recommended to provide symptomatic relief, but these medications have significant side effects. The Ayurvedic therapy not only lacks such adverse effects, but also provides a more effective approach by addressing Agni and Ama at their fundamental origins. The principles of managing Amavata involve langhana (therapeutic fasting), Swedana (sudation therapy), and the use of Dravyas (medicinal substances) with tikta (bitter) and katu (pungent) tastes, as part of Shamana chikitsa (palliative treatment). The first precise description of Amavata as an illness can be found in Madhav Nidan. Therefore, the current study focuses on the comprehensive evaluation of Amavata, specifically Rheumatoid Arthritis, based on the teachings of all the Ayurvedic classics, as well as its management.

Keywords: Ama, Amavata, Langhan, Virechan, Basti, Swedan, Rheumatoid Arthritis.