Abstract

Dr. Kedarnath J.*, Dr. Madhava Diggavi, Dr. Ramaling S. Hugar

ABSTRACT

Pakshaghata is a Vataja Nanatmaja Vikara described in classics and is categorized under Madhyama Rogamarga. It can be correlated with stroke in modern medicine, which is an acute neurological condition caused by vascular pathology resulting in excerebral infarction or hemorrhage. Stroke is a major global health problem leading to high mortality and long-term disability. Although modern management includes anticoagulants, antiplatelets, thrombolytics, statins, and antihypertensive drugs, their prolonged use may result in adverse effects such as bleeding disorders, hypotension, arrhythmias, hepatotoxicity, renal damage, and hypersensitivity reactions. Hence, there is a need for safer and effective alternative approaches. The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Virechanottara Lashuna Rasayana in the management of Avaranajanya Pakshaghata. A 60-year-old male patient presented to the OPD of the Department of Kayachikitsa, Pandith Taranath Government Ayurvedic Medical College and Research Centre, Ballari, with complaints of Balakshaya, Karmahani of the right upper and lower limbs, Vak krichrata, Sparshaghnatva, bladder and bowel incontinence, and cognitive impairment. Based on clinical assessment, the condition was diagnosed as Pakshaghata. The patient was treated with Virechana followed by administration of Lashuna Rasayana along with supportive therapies such as Shirotalam. Assessment was done using subjective and objective parameters. Post-treatment results showed marked improvement in motor functions, sensory perception, bladder and bowel control, and cognitive abilities. The patient, who was initially wheelchair-bound, became able to stand without support. Objective parameters such as vitamin B12, zinc, and copper levels also showed improvement. Thus, Virechanottara Lashuna Rasayana along with Shirotalam was found to be effective in the management of Pakshaghata and may be considered a beneficial therapeutic modality in stroke rehabilitation.