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International Journal ofAyurvedic and Herbal Medicine
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Exploring the Role of Amavatahara Drugs in the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Published:01 Dec 2025
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C.K. Jayanthi1*, K. Geethukumari2

1 Associate Professor, Department of Dravyaguna vigyan, Mannam Ayurveda Co-operative edical College, Pandalam

2 PG scholar, Department of Dravyaguna vigyan, Mannam Ayurveda Co-operative Medical, College, Pandalam

Corresponding Author:C.K. Jayanthi

picture_as_pdfDownload link10.47191/ijahm/v15i6.12

subjectAbstract

Ayurveda offers hope for the suffering humanity in today's world, where a complete treatment solution for the most common chronic inflammatory joint disease, Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis), remains elusive. This condition causes joint swelling, pain, and stiffness, and, if left untreated, can lead to debility, joint deformities, and crippling. Although modern medical treatments have significantly improved disease management, a complete cure is yet to be achieved. As per, ayurvedic literatures Amavata, a prevalent clinical condition manifested due to the pathological effect of Ama. As per the present status, Amavata has become increasingly prevalent, affecting individuals across all age groups, with its severity tending to rise with advancing age. The term "Amavata" is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Ama," which refers to a toxic accumulation within the body due to various imbalances, and "Vata," the dosha that governs movement and function. When Ama combines with Vata and localizes in the Shleshmasthana (the joint spaces), it results in a painful condition. Amavata closely resembles its characters with Rheumatoid Arthritis, sharing similar clinical features such as pain, swelling, stiffness, fever, general debility, and fatigue. Many rheumatological disorders remain chronic conditions, and despite significant therapeutic advances, a definitive cure is still not available for several of them. Amavata presents a clinical challenge due to its chronic course and potential for complications, which can contribute to substantial morbidity if not effectively managed. Conventional treatments, including DMARDs and biologics, play an important role in controlling inflammation and slowing disease progression; however, they may be associated with adverse effects in some patients, prompting interest in complementary therapeutic approaches. In Ayurveda, the therapeutic approaches such as Langhana, Swedana, Tikta-Katu formulations, Deepana, Virechana, and Basti are recommended for managing the disease. There is an increasing focus on exploring complementary and alternative treatment options, such as traditional medicine, medicinal plants, and their bioactive compounds, which demonstrate strong anti-inflammatory properties with fewer harmful effects on human health. This review highlights promising medicinal plants and natural compounds with potent anti-inflammatory activities in the context of arthritis treatment.

sellKeywords

AmavataDeepanaLanghanaSwedanaTikta-KatuVirechanaShleshmasthana

format_list_numberedReferences

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How to Cite

Jayanthi, C. & Geethukumari, K. (2025). Exploring the Role of Amavatahara Drugs in the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis. International Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine, 15(6). https://doi.org/10.47191/ijahm/v15i6.12

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