A randomised clinical trial evaluating effectiveness of Guduchi and Shunthi kvatha in Amavata(Rheumatoid arthritis) in comparison with indomethacin

Abstract

Indian Traditional system of medicine (Ayurveda) has played premier role in the management of crippling disease, Amavata is one among them. Amavata is a chronic disease caused by vitiation of Vata associated with Ama. The clinical presentation of Amavata closely mimic Rheumatoid arthritis in accordance with their similarities in clinical features like pain, swelling, stiffness, fever, general debility, fatigue, etc. Herbal drugs are becoming increasingly popular in managing chronic diseases because of its safety, long term usage with fewer side effects and multidimensional actions. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifo-lia (Willd.) Miers ex Hook.f. & thoms.) and Shunthi (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) are widely available economic drugs with effective pharmacological actions. Present clinical study is conducted on 3 groups with 27 patients in each group. Patients of group 1 were administered the test form i.e, Guduchi and Shunthi kvatha. Patients of group 2 were treated with standard drug Indomethacin 75 mg BD. Patients of group 3 were administered both with Guduchi & Shunthi kvatha and Indomethacin. The results were tabulated using statistical meth-ods and compared between the groups. Change in subjective and objective parameters were observed at the end of treatment in each group. Subjective parameters like Pain, Angamarda, Aruchi, Trishna, Alasya, Gaurava, Jvara, Apaka and Shunata anganam were observed. Objective parameters like CBC, ESR, RA factor, CRP and collagen profile were carried out before and after treatment. Trial drug shows more efficacy in alleviating subjective parame-ters, but standard drug shows more efficiency in the form of objective param-eters. Overall effectiveness in signs and symptoms was seen in the volun-teers taking both trial and standard drug which signifies synergistic effect of both drugs help in resolution of Amavata better. Guduchi and Shunthi kvatha showed encouraging results but this must be taken for longer duration.