Article: EXPLORATORY STUDY TO ASSESS THE EFFECTIVENESS OF AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF UNDERWEIGHT IN CHILDREN AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL OF INDIA

Article Category: Original Research articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.096174

Pages: 71-77

Author: Deepthi Viswaroopan, Shailaja U, Arun Raj GR *, Vijayalaxmi Mallannavar, Jithesh Raj KT

Abstract: Objectives:To evaluate the effectiveness of Aswagandha Ghrita Matra Basti on Karshya (underweight) in children. Materials and methods:The study was carried out at inpatient level in a tertiary Ayurveda hospital attached to teaching institute. 30 children satisfying diagnostic criteria and age 6-10 years were included and distributed into two groups of 15 patients each. Group A were given Abhyanga with Tila Taila and Nadisweda followed by Matra Basti with Ashwagandha Ghrita (dose as per age) along with dietary advice for 15 days. In Group B, patients were given only dietary advice for 15 days. The patients of both the groups were followed up after a period of 30 days i.e., on the 45^thday. Results and Discussion:It was found that Matra Basti with Ashwagandha Ghrita showed highly significant results in subjective as well as objective parameters such as general weakness, state of hunger, activity or interest, weight in Kg, height in cm, chest circumference, mid arm circumference and B.M.I. Conclusion:Aswagandha Ghrita Matra Basti is effective in improving all the anthropometrical measurements and in reducing the associated complaints of Karshya and hence useful in the management of Karshya in children.

Keyword: underweight, Ashwagandha ghrita, matrabasti, malnutrition, undernutrition, karshya