Clinical Importance of Treating a Disease in Purvarupavastha (Prodromal Stage) of Shat-Kriyakala: A Case Study

According to Ayurveda, Dosha (regulating components), Dhatu (residing components) & Mala (excretory components) form the basis of physiological & pathological functioning in human body. Among the three types of Dosha, Vata plays dominant role in metabolism by regulating voluntary and involuntary activities. It’s quick & continuous actions of secretion & mobilization of biochemicals required for metabolism is significant in maintaining the equilibrium. Amongst Dhatu, Rakta Dhatu (blood tissue) is regarded as a vital life-supporting tissue. Vatarakta is a spectrum of disorders resulting from pathological interaction of Vata Dosha and Rakta Dhatu. Due to erroneous dietary habits & behavioural patterns[1], function of Vata is deranged and blood biochemistry changes which ultimately result in the pathogenesis of Vatarakta. Any disease, before full-fledged manifestation, shows alarming indicators which if identified in time check the disease progression & may help reverse the pathology resulting in complete recovery of the patient. This concept is described in Ayurveda as Shat Kriyakala (six times to intervene & treat) that can help the physician for early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.[2] Methods: A 21-year-old female patient diagnosed with prodromal stage of Vatarakta was treated with oral medication and Panchakarma procedures of Laghu Virechana, Tiktaksheera Basti, Katibasti and Patrapindasweda. Result: There was significant relief with improvement in pain, edema, skin pigmentation and knee & back pain & reduction in appearance of varicosity. Conclusion: Timely intervention based on Nidana Panchaka and Shat Kriya Kala can result to prevent disease progression.