A Clinical Study on Gridhrasi (Sciatica) and Its Management With Nirgundi: An Ayurvedic Perspective

Background: Gridhrasi is described in Ayurveda as a Vata-dominant disorder characterized by pain, stiffness, pricking sensation, and restricted movement extending from the lower back or buttock towards the lower limb. Its clinical presentation may resemble sciatica, which commonly involves radiating pain associated with irritation or compression of lumbosacral nerve roots. Aim: To review the clinical evidence concerning the use of Nirgundi (Vitex negundo Linn.) in the management of Gridhrasi, with particular reference to pain, stiffness, straight leg raising (SLR), walking ability, and associated symptoms. Materials and Methods: This article presents a literature-based analysis of a published clinical study involving 119 registered patients with Gridhrasi. Participants were allocated to two treatment groups. Group A received oral Nirgundi Ghana Vati, while Group B received oral Nirgundi Ghana Vati combined with Nirgundi Taila Matra Basti. The published study evaluated subjective symptoms, clinical findings, and neurological parameters, with a one-month follow-up. Results: Of the 119 registered patients, 102 completed treatment: 52 in Group A and 50 in Group B. Both groups demonstrated improvement. The combined-treatment group showed greater reported relief in several symptoms and clinical parameters, including pain, pricking sensation, stiffness, SLR findings, and walking time. However, the reported difference in the overall effect between the two groups was statistically non-significant. Conclusion: Published clinical evidence suggests that Nirgundi-based treatment may have a role in the management of Gridhrasi. The addition of Matra Basti showed favourable trends in several outcomes, but larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed to establish efficacy and safety conclusively.