A Comparative Clinical Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Mahasneha With Mahanarayana Taila as Matra Basti and Janu Basti in Janu Sandhigata Vata Vis-À-Vis Osteoarthritis of the Knee Joint

Sandhigatavata, characterized by joint pain, swelling, and restricted movement, closely correlates with osteoarthritis (OA), the most common degenerative joint disorder. OA predominantly affects weight-bearing joints and is highly prevalent among Indian females. Conventional therapies such as NSAIDs and corticosteroids offer only symptomatic relief and may cause adverse effects. In Ayurveda, Sandhigatavata is managed through Snehana, Upanaha, Agnikarma, and Mardana. Considering Astimajjagata Vata involvement, Bahya and Abhyantara Sneha Prayoga along with Trayodashanga Guggulu are indicated. Matra Basti provides systemic Snehana and Brimhana, while Janu Basti offers localized relief. Both Mahasneha and Mahanarayana Taila are potent Vatahara and Brimhana formulations. This study aimed to compare their efficacy in managing Janu Sandhigata Vata. Objective: To compare the efficacy of Mahasneha and Mahanarayana Taila administered as Matra Basti and Janu Basti in Janu Sandhigata Vata vis-à-vis osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Methods: A comparative clinical trial was conducted on 40 patients, divided equally into two groups. Group A received Mahasneha and Group B received Mahanarayana Taila as Matra Basti (72 ml for 8 days) and Janu Basti (8 days). Both groups were administered Trayodashanga Guggulu (1000 mg/day in two doses) for 30 days. Assessments were done on day 0, day 9, and day 39. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS with appropriate tests. Results: Both groups showed significant improvement, but Group A demonstrated superior outcomes— pain reduction (50% vs 39.22%), swelling resolution (100% vs 85.71%), stiffness improvement (95.24% vs 58.33%), and better WOMAC and functional scores by day 39. Conclusion: Mahasneha proved more effective than Mahanarayana Taila in relieving symptoms of Janu Sandhigata Vata.