Ayurvedic Management of Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis): A Case Report

Background: Amavata is a chronic inflammatory joint disorder described in the Ayurvedic classics, and its clinical picture closely resembles Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The disease develops when Ama (the toxic product of impaired digestion) combines with vitiated Vata Dosha and settles in the joints, producing pain, swelling and stiffness. RA affects nearly 1% of adults worldwide and remains an important cause of disability. Case Presentation: A 31-year-old Patient (Mrs. R.J.) attended the OPD of Kayachikitsa, M.M.M. Govt. Ayurved College, Udaipur, with pain in the bilateral interphalangeal (IP), knee, wrist, elbow and shoulder joints for one year, along with morning stiffness and a burning sensation in the finger joints. Her RA Factor was 53.61 IU/ml and ESR 33 mm/hr. She was treated with oral medicines (a combined sachet of Panchakola Churna, Godanti Bhasma, Amavataari Ras and Ajmodadi Churna, along with Simhanad Guggul and Rasnaadi Kwatha), Kala Basti Krama consisting of Kshara Basti and Anuvasana Basti with Nirgundi Taila for 15 days, and Valuka Pottali Ruksha Sweda prepared with Baluka, Ajwain and Saindhava Lavana for 15 days. Results: Over 15–21 days of treatment the patient showed about 60% relief in pain and morning stiffness. RA Factor fell from 53.61 to 31.00 IU/ml and ESR from 33 to 24 mm/hr. By the end of treatment, she was able to carry out her daily activities without help. Conclusion: In this patient, classical Ayurvedic management gave clear symptomatic relief together with a measurable fall in inflammatory markers, and no adverse effect was noted during the treatment period.