Abstract

A LITERARY REVIEW OF AMVATA W.S.R. TO RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Chetan Prakash Meena*, Devesh Jaiman and Ruhi Zahir

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Abstract

Amavata is a severely disabling joint disease that affects people globally, regardless of climate or ethnicity. In modern science, Amavata is likened to Rheumatoid Arthritis, an autoimmune disorder. It is particularly common among the elderly. The term "Amavata" is derived from two words, Ama and Vata, indicating a condition caused by their accumulation. Ama results from the impaired functioning of Agni (digestive fire) and signifies something unripe, immature, or undigested. This Ama is transported by Vata throughout the body and collects in the joints and weaker areas (Khavaigunya), leading to Amavata. Ayurvedic treatment recommends Shamana and Shodhana therapies, whereas modern medicine employs anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, steroids, and DMARDs, which have their own side effects. Amavata is classified as a Vata-Kaphaja disorder in Ayurveda since the time of Madhavakara and is considered one of the most challenging diseases due to its chronicity, incurability, complications, and high morbidity.

Keywords: Amavata, Ama, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Agni, Vata.