Basti Chikitsa as a Supportive Intervention in Prameha Management: A Case Study

Diabetes Mellitus is a major global health challenge of the 21st century. Persistent symptoms, long-term complications, and adverse effects associated with conventional therapy often encourage patients to seek complementary and alternative treatment approaches. In Ayurveda, Basti (therapeutic enema) is regarded as Ardha Chikitsa and is considered one of the most important procedures among Panchakarma therapies. Although Basti is generally contraindicated in Prameha, classical Ayurvedic literature describes certain specific forms of Basti that may be beneficial in selected conditions. The present case study was undertaken to evaluate the therapeutic potential of Madhutailik Basti in the management of Prameha corresponding to diabetes mellitus. A 34-year-old male patient with a two-year history of diabetes mellitus, on Metformin 500 mg twice daily, presented with complaints of polyuria, excessive thirst, burning sensation and numbness in upper and lower limbs, weakness, cramps, and fatigue. Laboratory investigations revealed uncontrolled glycemic status with HbA1c of 10.5%, fasting blood sugar of 131 mg/dl, and postprandial blood sugar of 168 mg/dl. The patient was administered Madhutailik Basti regimen for a duration of three months. Following completion of therapy, marked improvement was observed in symptoms such as Prabhuta Mutrata (polyuria,) Pipasa (excessive thirst), Kshudhadhikya (Polyphagia), Karapadatal Daha (burning sensation in palm and sole), Karapada Supti (numbness in upper and lower limbs) and Daurbalya (fatigue). Significant reduction in glycemic parameters was also noted, with HbA1c decreasing from 10.5% to 7.3%, approaching near-normal levels. Fasting and postprandial blood glucose values also showed considerable improvement after therapy.