Publication

Abstract : Neuro degenerative disorders are major challenges to clinicians all the time. High profile technological and pharmacological advances unfortunately failed to meet the needs of the patients with Neuro degenerative conditions. So as a strong alternative system patients are approaching Ayurvedic clinicians most of the time. The prevalence of patients with Neuro degenerative conditions in Ayurvedic college hospital wards are surprising. The present study was an observational study conducted among the faculties of Department of Kayachikitsa and Roga nidanam of Government and aided Ayurveda colleges across Kerala to assess the modus operandi of treating Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) with rasayana drugs. Structured study questionnaire with patient selection, drug, its administration, complication, pathyapathya followed during the rasayana therapy and cost of the therapy as the domains was the study tool in the study. Open and closed ended questions were generated to collect the data. Data collection was done through email. Twenty faculties participated. The data revealed that Parkinson’s disease and Motor Neuron Disease are the NDDs commonly approaching our OPD- IPD set up. Patients approach with a clear-cut diagnosis and if needed investigations are done. Faculties of these colleges are using both herbal and herbo-mineral rasayanas like kapikachu (Mucuna pruriens), lasuna (Allium sativum), chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica), shilajatu, bhallataka (Semicarpus anacardium) and medhyarasayana. Complications are seen during and after the course of administration of these drugs which are managed accordingly. Pathyapathya are followed as per the classics. Study concluded with the outcome that NDDs are treated by Ayurvedic physicians in a better way with rasayanas.