With the inception of National Health Mission (NHM)/National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) doctors were colocated in public health institutions and were made a part of the mainstream healthcare system. The study was conducted with an objective to understand the role and effectiveness of AYUSH doctors in providing maternal health services in public health institutions in rural India. This brief review was carried out by selecting articles through cross-references and hand search. Research on AYUSH principles/therapeutics in maternal health is found in good quantity; however, the role of AYUSH doctors in providing maternal health services is very limited. These studies assessed the theoretical knowledge regarding essential and emergency obstetric care, identifying and managing pregnancy related complications and the usage of partograph. Skills related to antenatal checkups, counseling skill on danger signs of pregnancy, vaginal delivery, neonatal resuscitation, and postnatal care were also evaluated by some studies. Studies observed variation in knowledge and skills among AYUSH doctors in different states, which reflects the support of the government and the training ambience that these doctors are exposed to at their undergraduate level and on-the-job training. The presence of AYUSH doctors in rural areas is, indeed, a great help for the community; however, they need regular training and orientation to upgrade their knowledge and skills for effective service delivery.

Bhela Samhita is one of the prominent treatises of Ayurveda. Indriya Sthana is one among the eight sections of Bhela Samhita and it comprises 12 chapters. Ayurlakshanam Indriyam (ALI) is the first chapter of B Indriya Sthana. Though it consists of various unique concepts, it is modestly explored or unexplored till date. Previous works have explored various clinical conditions present in “Charaka Indriya Sthana”; these have prognostic significance and clinical applicability in the present era also but such types of studies are lacking in “Bhela Samhita-Indriya Sthana.” The current work is aimed at exploring the contents of ALI of “Indriya Sthana.” ALI deals with the estimation of life expectancy and age-specific mortality based on some anthropometric or phenotypic characteristics. Most of the content is unique and not explained in any other Ayurveda classical texts. Various conditions such as craniofacial anomalies/ disorders, multi-malformed infants, infant/ neonatal mortality, synophrys, mental retardation (MR), congenital, chromosomal, genetic syndromes/ conditions, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) conditions, newborn cry-based diagnostic systems (NCDs), spina bifida (SB), hydrocephalus, congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV), hypertrichosis, malnutrition, calculation of life expectancy based on various anthropometric indices (e.g., length and breadth of fingers, palms, ears, nose, forehead, and thighs), and phenotypic biomarkers and personality traits that are positively associated with centenarians have been documented in this chapter. Maharshi Bhela has provided techniques that are inexpensive, simple, noninvasive, highly accurate, and suitable for low- or middle-income countries for estimating life expectancy as well as for diagnosing hidden diseases. Though further research is still required to substantiate the claims made in this chapter, the current study paves the path for future research directions.

Introduction: KampillakaMallotus philippensis (Lam.) Muell. Arg. of family Euphorbiaceae, is one of the best drugs of Ayurveda, known for its use in krimiroga (worms). Materials and Methods: This article delineates about the various aspects of Kampillaka, being collected from 20 Nighantu (lexicons), 18 Rasagrantha (compendia related to Rasashastra), 09 Chikitsa grantha (Compendia), and 08 Samhita (treaties). For its identification, about 46 Paryaya (synonyms) were attributed, highlighting its morphological characteristics and pharmacological properties and actions. Result and Discussion: Kampillaka possesses Katu Rasa, Laghu guna, Ushna Veerya, Katu vipaka, and kapha nashaka properties and Bhedi, Deepana, Grahi, and Rechi (Patra shaka) actions. It has been indicted in more than 22 disease conditions where maximum texts recommend it in Krimi Roga (Worm), Vrana (Wound), Gulma (Abdominal lump), Adhmana (Distention), Vibandha (Constipation), Jvara (Fever) etc. Kampillaka as an ingredient has been included in 128 formulations; as recorded in 35 classical texts of Ayurveda through 64 and 42 formulations in internal and external administration, respectively; in more than 14 dosages form where the maximum are in Churna (31), Taila (24), Ghrita (20), Gutika (10), Lepa (10) etc. Its incompatibility with buttermilk has been highlighted in Charka Samhita. Conclusion: The observation of the current review may be helpful, proving a base to find out therapeutic application of the Kampillaka for the management of certain disease conditions such as wounds, skin disease, worm infestation etc., which have been highlighted in classical texts.

Oral hygiene is the key to one’s healthy life. Maintaining oral hygiene is directly related to the body’s first line of defense mechanism. It maintains both oral and systemic health. Oral microflora plays a very important role in oral hygiene. Oral microbiome is a complex ecosystem of several species of microorganisms such as streptococci, Neisseria, Veillonella, Actinomyces, and other obligate anaerobes. This microbiome is mainly affected by acidic diet and acidic environment of the oral cavity. Poor oral hygiene decreases the rate of survival of oral microbiome and causes dental caries, periodontal diseases, halitosis, oral pain, and discomfort. Globally, the prevalence of oral diseases is an increasing burden on the health sector and the economic sector. Research on oral diseases states that it affects around 3.5 billion people. It generally affects the poor and socially disadvantaged members of society. Therefore, it has been necessary to develop a mouthwash to reduce oral disorders through Ayurveda. It is developed by using powder of the pomegranate peel and by maintaining its pH. Further, it is analyzed for its organoleptic property to standardize the principles of Ayurveda. On the basis of these properties, it seems to be effective in the maintenance of oral hygiene and can reduce the chances of oral diseases. Preparation of mouthwash with this method is very easy and can be used by every socio-economic strata of society without any complication. Hence, using this mouthwash is recommended.

Background: Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis) is described as Kasta Sadhya Vyadhi (difficult to treat disease) in Ayurveda. Pain in joints with swelling is a cardinal feature of this disease. It can be correlated with rheumatoid arthritis described in conventional medical science, where corticosteroids and some non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used for induction of remission, which cause certain dangerous side effects in the patients. Ayurveda promises an effective therapy for it. Objective: The present clinical trial was conducted to provide a safe, economical and effective therapy to the patients of Amavata. The present study was conducted in 30 patients having classical symptoms of Amavata. Materials and Methods: The patients were treated with internal medications, Panchakrama procedures and physiotherapy. Patients having an acute or chronic systemic illness or infection were excluded from the study. Result: The observations and results obtained were analyzed statistically applying the “t” test. This multimodal Ayurveda treatment showed 61.10% relief in sign and symptoms of Amavata in all the patients. Ayurveda treatment procedures and medication used for the treatment of Amavata have Agni Deepana, Ama Pachana, Vata Shamaka, and Rasayana effects in the body which are helpful in to retard disease process and to reduce signs and symptoms of the disease. A significant decrease in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate in all the patients was also noticed. All the results obtained were highly significant statistically. Conclusion: The therapeutic interventions adopted in the study have shown beneficial effects in the patients of Amavata and is free from side effects.

Background: Panchakarma (penta bio-purification method), a comprehensive, and an integral part of Ayurveda treatment and have its role in every therapeutic condition. Due to its long-lasting and radical relief of chronic diseases, it is now developing globally. Procedures followed after Panchakarma (particularly known as post Panchakarma sequential dietary recipe in Ayurveda) are important as they help in avoiding complications which are likely to occur physiologically due to post Panchakarma exertion. Peya (Thin gruel), Vilepi (Thick gruel), and Yusha Kalpana (Semi liquid preparation/Soup) is used in the post Panchakarma sequential dietary recipe as it helps to improve digestion and regaining of strength. Detail regarding the preparation of these dietary recipes along with their nutritional value may increase their utility. Aim: To do the Pharmaceutical standardization and brief review of nutritional values of three Ayurveda recipes sequentially used after Panchakarma.Materials and Methods: Ingredients mentioned with given ratio were prepared in three batches to follow the standard manufacturing process (SMP) for Peya, Vilepi, and Yusha. For the preparatory methods, the reference was taken mentioned in Sharandhara Samhita. All the precautions were followed during a pharmaceutical study to avoid the errors for standardization. Results: For preparation of post Panchakarma sequential dietary recipe the average value for Peya, Vilepi, and Yusha were 556.66, 123.33, and 553.33mL, respectively. Review of nutritional values was done containing calories, protein, fat, carbohydrates, calcium, phosphorus, iron, VA I.V., thiamine, nicotinic acid, riboflavin, and Vc. Conclusion: The standardization of these recipes how to prepare it, in which amount it should be taken, precautions while making this Kalpana the nutrition value should be enriched in it. The nutritional values of these three recipes support their utility as post Panchakarma sequential dietary recipe to regain strength as well as to rule out post Panchakarma complication.

Background: Semen is produced in the testicles and stored in the seminal vesicles, which contribute to 50% of the semen volume. Semen or seminal fluid contains sperms. Sperms are capable of fertilizing female ova. The climax of sexual excitement, that is, orgasm, in the male is accompanied by the discharge of semen. Semen analysis is important to evaluate the infertility in male partners. It provides the direction to determine the prevalence of abnormal semen parameters in our environment. Materials and Methods: Women who experienced childlessness were examined in the department of Streerog and Prasutitantra with diagnosis of primary infertility. Semen samples of 212 men aged 20–45 years were collected at Shri Gurudeo Ayurved Hospital, Gurukunj Ashram. Semen analysis of the same male partners was done for volume, sperm count, and motility according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for semen analysis. This study was conducted in the pathology laboratory of the Department of Rognidan and Vikrity Vigyan at Shri Gurudeo Ayurved Hospital, Gurukunj Ashram. Results: Overall, 8% cases of azoospermia and 30% incidence of abnormal semen quality behind male infertility was noted. Conclusion: The current study data also match with the WHO incidence data regarding male infertility in a rural setup. The exact and early causes of azoospermia need to be corrected and managed. Also, there is a need to correct the rare causes of male infertility related to semen, even though the percentage of the same may be low. The role of male partners in infertility needs more significant research work to be conducted.

Objective: The use of herbal remedies has assumed a global dimension. A shift of preferences toward herbal ingredients in the oral care segment is gaining momentum. The current study is aimed at assessing the efficacy and safety of two herbal active toothpastes Dabur Red Toothpaste (DRT) and Dabur Babool Toothpaste (DBT) in dental caries, toothache, plaque, and oral hygiene in comparison to a chemical active-based marketed dental cream (MDC). Materials and Methods: The study was an open-label, randomized, controlled, parallel-group, monocentric, efficacy, and safety study. One hundred and twenty healthy male and female subjects between 12 and 65 years who satisfied inclusion and exclusion criteria were randomized equally (1:1:1) into three groups. Each subject was assigned to use one of the three randomized study products, which was to be used twice daily for 24 weeks. Efficacy was assessed on the basis of changes in parameters such as caries, plaque, gum bleeding, halitosis, dental stains, oral hygiene, toothache, and salivary pH; and the subject’s self-assessment of bad breath, toothache, plaque/ yellowish or sticky deposit on the teeth, and the mouth feel of toothpastes. Safety was assessed on the basis of monitoring of adverse events from baseline study completion. Results: Reduction in gum bleeding, halitosis (bad breath), microbial growth, and improvement in oral hygiene were seen in all the tested toothpastes. A significant reduction in tooth pain, stain intensity, and stain area was also observed. No deterioration in the condition of caries was observed in any of the groups. The products also helped maintain the salivary pH. None of the reported AE that was assessed was found to be related to the study treatments, except swelling (gums) and boils (tongue), one each in the DRT and MDC groups, which were resolved on their own without any sequelae. Conclusion: All the tested toothpastes were effective and safe in dental conditions such as dental caries, toothache, and oral hygiene and they were assessed to be well tolerated and safe.

Introduction: The shelf life of a drug can be considered up to the period when it gets deteriorated and it does not experience any alteration in its physicochemical state. Every product has a shelf life, which depends on various physical, chemical, environmental, and biological factors. Ancient seers have clarified the shelf life of various compound formulations. However, there is a need to revalidate and ascertain the shelf life of individual formulations by following parameters that are prevalent in the respective scenario. Aim: To evaluate the shelf life of Marichyadi Lepa prepared by Agnipaki (heating by using fire) method (MLA) and Bhanupaki (heating by using sunlight) method (MLB) through an accelerated stability study. Subjects and Methods: Physicochemical parameters were measured at 40 ± 2°C temperature and 75 ± 5% relative humidity. Analysis was repeated at intervals of 1, 3, and 6 months, and average 10% degradation of both the test drug samples was calculated and extrapolated to find the shelf life. Results: MLB and MLA showed a shelf life of 6.24 months and 5.50 months, respectively. Conclusion: MLB is comparatively more stable than the sample prepared with MLA.

The prevalence of Vatavyadhis (neurological diseases) such as Pakshaghata (hemiplegia), Gidhrasi (Sciatica), Ardita (Facial palsy) has increased. Arditavata can be correlated in contemporary medicine with Bell’s palsy, affecting the unilateral side of the face. This is the most common unilateral lower motor neuron facial palsy that usually develops suddenly or spontaneously. Ardita was successfully managed with Ayurveda treatment such as Snehana (oleition), Svedana (fomentation) followed by Nasya (nasal medication) and intake of other Ayurveda medicines. The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of Navaneeta (butter) used for Abhynaga along with Ksheerbala oil for Nasya and Talam in the management of patients suffering from Ardita. The study was a consecutive case series done on an OPD basis to study the pre- and post-effect of the treatment regime mentioned earlier on patients suffering from Ardita. This study was conducted on four patients of Ardita, in whom Abhynaga with Navaneeta (butter), Nasya with Ksheerbala oil was done for seven days followed by an intake of Shamana medicines for the next 14 days. Use of Navaneeta (butter) for Abhyanga (massage), Ksheerabala oil for Nasya and Talam (medicinal application in scalp) showed significant improvement in the symptoms of patients with Ardita without any adverse effects in seven days, and most of the symptoms disappeared within 14 days of treatment. For pre- and post-assessment of the patients, House-Brackmann facial nerve grading system was used. Hence, the use of Navaneeta for Abhyanga, Ksheerbala Taila for Nasya and Talam helps is alleviating the symptoms of patients with Ardita.

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare but potentially morbid condition which may cause permanent neurological disability in the form of motor and sensory dysfunctions of the lower extremities, impaired bladder, bowel, and sexual function. Different underlying pathological conditions may give rise to CES, of which a herniated lumbar intervertebral disc is the most common cause. In the present case study, a 62-year-old male patient who was diagnosed as a case of CES due to an extruded L4/L5 disc and refused to undergo surgery and wanted to go for Ayurveda treatment was admitted to the Panchakarma IPD, Ayurveda Hospital, NEIAH, Shillong. He was treated following the principles of Avarana Janya Vatavyadhi (diseases caused by Vata when vitiated due to obstruction in its normal flow) with oral medications and Panchakarma therapy. Improvement in the condition of the patient in terms of pain relief, bladder control, improvement of motor power, walking capacity, straight leg raising test (SLRT), etc. were observed after the completion of treatment and during the first follow-up after 1 month.