Gujarat Ayurved University

Background: Pre analytical errors are the main cause of laboratory dysfunctions which compromise the reliability of diagnostic results. These errors occur during the phase before actual sample analysis. Even though this contribute to the maximum proportion of error in laboratory, it is completely preventable. This article is focusing not only on the quantification of preanalytical errors in our laboratory, but also suggests some possible practical remedies that can be adopted to reduce them. Materials and Methods: Current study was retrospective observational study. Total of 29998 samples were collected. Error categories including haemolysis, insufficient quantity, icteric samples and lipemic samples were analysed. The frequency of each error category was calculated. Based on the analysis, relevant remedial measures were proposed. Results: During the 20 months period, out of the total 29998 samples 53 (0.18 %) samples were rejected due to preanalytical errors. Haemolysis (0.067%) was the most commonly observed error, contributing to the highest proportion of rejected samples followed by insufficient sample (0.053%), Highly icteric samples (0.050%), Lipemic samples (0.007%). Conclusion: This retrospective study identified key preanalytical errors and the rejection rate of specimens due to preanalytical error is around 0.18 %. Preanalytical errors can also be taken as an indicator to establish laboratory standards which help to get the best possible laboratory results. Effective management of preanalytical errors require timely monitoring of error sources, implementation of proper corrective and preventive measures and periodic training of laboratory staff.

Charaka Saṃhita is one of the most authoritative classical texts of Ayurveda, composed primarily with a focus on Kayachikitsa. It is systematically divided into eight sections, among which Kalpasthana and Siddhisthana holds special importance due to its practical orientation toward Panchakarma therapy. Kalpasthana is the seventh section of the Charaka Saṃhita and consists of twelve chapters. One such distinctive modality in Vamana kalpa is Ghreya yoga, where in specific substances are administered through olfactory inhalation. The term ‘Ghreya’ denotes substances perceived through the sense of smell (Ghrana indriya). Ayurveda recognizes olfaction as a potent sensory modality capable of influencing both physiological and psychological processes. A comprehensive literary review was conducted and relevant verses pertaining to Ghreya yogas in Vamana Kalpa in Kalpasthana were systematically collected, translated and analysed. Ghreya yogas for Vamana karma are mentioned in Madana Kalpa (Chapter 1), Ikshvaku Kalpa (Chapter 3) and Dhamargava Kalpa (Chapter 4) of Charaka Samhita Kalpasthana. Ghreya vamana yogas utilize the nasal route to stimulate and facilitate therapeutic emesis. The nasal administration acts directly on Urdhvajatrugata region, which is kapha dosa predominant, thereby stimulating the upper respiratory passages, nasopharynx and the reflex arcs associated with the vomiting mechanism. Despite its classical importance, Ghreya yoga remains limited by several clinical and scientific constraints. Furthermore, variability in formulation, method of administration and patient selection creates inconsistency in available data. Standardization of Ghreya formulations, quantification of active compounds and developing reproducible administration techniques will be essential for integrating this modality into evidence-based practices. Strengthening scientific evidence for Ghreya yoga can contribute meaningfully to the rational practice of Vamana and supports its integration into modern evidence-based healthcare.

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder that significantly impairs the quality of life. It can be compared with Ekakustha in Ayurveda, which is a subtype of Kshudra Kushtha, characterized by Mahavastu, Aswedanam, and Matsyashakalopamam Avastha. Case Presentation: A 30-year-old male presented with circular reddish-white patches over the scalp, chest, back, and extremities associated with itching and scaling for the past 10 months. He had a history of irregular food habits and lifestyle patterns. Clinical assessment and symptoms confirmed a diagnosis of psoriasis. Intervention: Based on the Tridoshaja involvement (predominantly Pitta-Kapha) and vitiation of Rakta and Rasa Dhatu, the patient was treated with Vamana and Virechana (bio-purification therapies), followed by Shamana Chikitsa with Ayurvedic internal medications and local applications. Outcome: A significant clinical improvement was observed. The Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI score) reduced from 25.1 to 0.9 after 57 days of treatment. No recurrence was observed during the follow-up. Conclusion: Classical Panchakarma therapies followed by Shamana Chikitsa proved effective in the long-term management of psoriasis. Lifestyle and dietary compliance are crucial to prevent recurrence.

Shashtika Dhanya (Shathi), a traditional Ayurvedic rice variety maturing in 60 days, holds profound therapeutic and nutritional significance according to classical Ayurvedic texts. Esteemed for its Madhura (sweet), Sheeta (cooling), Laghu (light), and Snigdha (unctuous) properties, it is recognized for its Tridoshaghna, Balya, Grahi, and Sthairyakara actions and is widely used in Panchakarma treatments like Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda. This review integrates classical Ayurvedic literature with modern scientific insights, highlighting Njavara, a medicinal ecotype of Shashti rice native to Kerala. Njavara exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and disease-modulating properties, with distinct variants based on glume color showing differences in biochemical, agronomic, and therapeutic traits. Nutritionally, it is rich in resistant starch, dietary fibre, phenolics, oryzanol, and tocopherols, making it valuable in functional nutrition. This paper emphasizes the relevance of preserving and promoting such ancient grains for holistic healthcare.

Improper functioning of Agni is the root cause of all diseases as per Ayurveda. Jatharagni, five types of Bhutagni and seven types of Dhatvagni helps in the metabolic transformations which occurs after the consumption of food. In the present era, unhealthy and sedentary lifestyle, increasing intake of fast food and faulty eating habits play an important role in Agnidushti. In Ayurveda clinical symptoms of this disease closely resemble Agnimandya. Hypothyroidism is a metabolic disorder with deficiency of thyroid gland hormones.So, in metabolic diseases like Hypothyroidism, correcting the Agnidushti is of prime importance. It is a common health issue globally affecting 5% of total population and its prevalence in India is 10-11%. Thyroid Hormone is required for the normal functioning of each and every tissue of the body, hence deficiency manifest as multi system involvement. Untreated Hyothyroidism may lead to hypertension, dyslipidaemia, infertility, cognitive impairment and neuromuscular dysfunction. There are various modern treatments available, but its long term use may lead to various side effects. Intervention of Ayurveda and Yoga practices in daily life may be serves as an effective strategy for managing Agnidushti conditions like Hypothyroidism. In the present case, a 31 year old female reported at the OPD of Swasthavritta, at ITRA, Jamnagar with clinical symptoms like unexplained weight gain, improper digestion, puffiness of face, generalized debility, hair fall. Her blood investigation showed elevated TSH level. She was treated with classical Ayurvedic medicines along with selected Yoga practices. The effectiveness of treatment was assessed by checking Thyroid profile and improvement in symptoms. At the end of intervention TSH level was reduced and decrease in symptoms was observed. By estimation of TSH level and decrease in the complaints suggest that Ayurvedic treatment along with selected Yoga practices may be beneficial in cases of Agnidushti w.s.r to Hypothyroidism.

ABSTRACTBackgroundInsomnia is highly prevalent among individuals with chronic diseases and often exacerbates disease progression while adversely impacting mental health and quality of life. However, validated tools to assess insomnia in this vulnerable population remain limited in emerging economies. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Bangla version of the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) among Bangladeshi adults with chronic diseases using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), Rasch modeling, and network analysis.MethodsA face‐to‐face survey was conducted among adults with clinically diagnosed chronic illnesses. CFA was used to test one‐, two‐, and three‐factor structures and gender‐based measurement invariance. Rasch analysis examined item fit, reliability, and response category functioning. Network analysis estimated symptom interrelations, centrality, bridge metrics, and gender‐based network invariance.ResultsThe two‐factor model (Night Symptoms, Daytime Impact) provided the most favorable balance between statistical fit and theoretical coherence. Although the three‐factor model yielded marginally better indices, its reliance on a single‐indicator factor and high inter‐factor correlations limited its interpretability. All items showed strong factor loadings and internal consistency. Measurement invariance was supported across gender. Rasch modeling confirmed item fit, category functioning, and reliability, though some items exhibited moderate gender‐based DIF. Network analysis identified ISI_1 (difficulty falling asleep) and ISI_6 (noticeability of sleep problems) as central symptoms, while ISI_4 (satisfaction with sleep pattern) emerged as a key bridge symptom. Predictability was high, and network structure was invariant across gender.ConclusionThe ISI‐Bangla demonstrates strong psychometric validity in a chronic disease population, supporting its use for clinical and research purposes in Bangladesh. Testing the alternative factor structures confirmed the robustness of the two‐factor specification. The integration of CFA, Rasch, and network analysis provides a comprehensive validation framework.

Arma is a Mamsal Vruddhi (painless, fleshy growth) that may originate from the inner or outer canthus (Kaneenika or Apanga Sandhi), and gradually encroaching towards the cornea (Krishna Mandal). In Ayurveda Sushruta Uttar Tantra Arma is described under Shuklagata Netra Roga. Taking the modern aspect in view, it is compared to Pterygium which is defined as wing -shaped fold of fibrovascular tissue arising from the inner palpebral conjunctiva and encroaching on to the cornea usually nasal in location thereby may cause disturbance in vision. Treatment is based more on patient symptoms than corneal appearance. Review of Ayurvedic Literature and their corresponding commentaries have undergone in- depth.

Background & Objectives: The napkin rash is most prevalent condition in children caused due to irritation of skin; as the area is more vulnerable to the inflammation as well as infection due to high moisture. It is usually mild but can lead to secondary bacterial and fungal infection if not properly treated. The study aims to provide cost effective alternative measure as Gojivha ointment for local application in the treatment of Napkin rash. Methods: The randomized controlled trial treated with Ayurveda medicine (Gojivha Danti ointment) in the management of Napkin rash. Total 60 patients were randomly allocated to the 2 groups for the period of 7 days. All the subjective and objective assessment criterions were evaluated before and at the end of treatment. Results: The mean scores of the subjective and objectives assessment criteria’s shows significant decrease in the both the group. The trial group shows marked improvement in discharge and itching as compared to the control group. Interpretation & Conclusions: The Gojivha Danti ointment shows equal effectiveness as control drug but can be considered as superior as it controls discharge and itching more effectively.

Abstract Background: Ginger, a rhizome of a perennial plant ( Zingiber officinale Roscoe), is commonly used as a spice or remedy in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Objectives: The present study aimed to determine phytochemical constituents with antioxidant potential in the hydroalcoholic extract of the rhizome of Z. officinale . Materials and Methods: The hydroalcoholic extract of the rhizome was prepared and subjected to qualitative and quantitative analysis of phytochemicals in addition to in vitro assays for determining the antioxidant potential of the extract. Results: The extract contained high phenolic, flavonoid, β-carotene, lycopene, tannin, and chlorophyll contents with high antioxidant potential. Phytochemical ingredients in the hydroalcoholic extract exhibited high total antioxidant, superoxide, nitric oxide (NO), hydroxyl, and free radical scavenging activities and reducing power. A dose-dependent relationship was found between the concentrations of the extract and radical scavenging activities. Median effective concentrations for total antioxidant, free radical, superoxide, NO, hydroxyl radicals scavenging, and reducing power activities were 66.22, 47.69, 3.04, 8.43, 8.78, and 0.10 mg/ml, respectively. Conclusions: The hydroalcoholic extract contained high total phenolics and flavonoid contents with high antioxidant capacity, superoxide and NO anion scavenging activities for possible therapeutic and food processing applications.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a progressive atherosclerotic condition affecting the lower limb arteries, leading to reduced blood flow and ischemic symptoms. Despite its increasing global prevalence, PAD often remains underdiagnosed and inadequately managed. Treatment options for PAD encompass lifestyle modifications, management of cardiovascular risk factors, pharmacological therapy, and, in advanced cases, endovascular procedures or surgical interventions. Ayurveda treatment has been utilized in clinical practice for the management of the disease and also to improve the quality of life. PATIENT INFORMATION: A 30-year-old Indian female farmer presented with a non-healing ischemic ulcer on the left second toe, along with tingling, hyperaesthesia, and nocturnal foot pain, with a past history of self-amputation of the left great toe due to gangrene. The patient had no history of any addiction. The patient had no conventional risk factors, and she had been managing the condition at home without medical supervision until the presentation. Based on clinical assessment and arterial Doppler study of the lower limbs, she was diagnosed with PAD. INTERVENTION: The patient was managed through an integrative Ayurvedic approach comprising medicated Ghee-based internal Snehapana, Virechana (therapeutic purgation), medicinal leech therapy for localized bloodletting, local wound cleansing, wound dressing, and oral administration of Ayurvedic formulations, including Kaishora Guggulu, Haritaki Churna, and Pippali Churna. RESULT: By the 43rd day, the patient got relief from pain and hyperesthesia, and the wound healed completely. CONCLUSION: In this young patient without conventional risk factors, a comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment protocol resulted in the healing of ischemic ulcer associated with PAD. This case suggests that Ayurveda may offer an effective non-invasive therapeutic approach for managing PAD-related complications, potentially reducing the need for more invasive vascular interventions.