Article: THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF YASHTIMADHU (GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA L.) AND GUDUCHI (TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA WILLD. MIERS) IN THE MANAGEMENT OF HAND, FOOT, AND MOUTH DISEASE: A CASE SERIES

Article Category: Case Reports

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.166206

Pages: 24-28

Author: Yashaswini BK *

Abstract: Background: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a highly contagious viral infection, primarily affecting children, characterized by fever, painful oral ulcers, and skin rashes. Conventional management focuses on symptomatic relief, with no specific antiviral treatment. Ayurveda, with its holistic approach, offers promising alternatives for managing HFMD through immune-boosting and healing interventions. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia Willd. Miers) in accelerating recovery and alleviating symptoms of HFMD. Materials and Methods: Two pediatric cases diagnosed clinically with Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) were managed in the Kayachikitsa OPD of Hillside Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital, Saldoddi, Agara village, Kanakapura main road, Bengaluru-560082. The treatment protocol consisted of Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia Willd. Miers) - administered internally and Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) - applied topically for oral ulcers. Additionally, Kumari pulp (Aloe vera L.) was used externally for skin lesions in one of the cases. The treatment was given for three days, and outcomes were assessed based on symptom relief, lesion healing, and overall recovery time. Results: Early intervention with Ayurveda treatment led to rapid symptomatic relief, prevention of lesion progression, and faster healing of ulcers and rashes. In both cases, oral discomfort significantly reduced within the first dose, and drying of lesion was observed by the second day of treatment. Additionally, the children resumed normal feeding and daily activities earlier than expected, suggesting an accelerated recovery. Conclusion: The findings suggest that Guduchi and Yashtimadhu can serve as effective therapeutic options for HFMD management, addressing both the infection and associated symptoms. Their antiviral, immunomodulatory, and wound-healing properties contribute to faster recovery and improved patient outcomes. While further clinical studies are required, this study highlights the potential of Ayurveda as a primary treatment approach in HFMD.

Keyword: Hand Foot Mouth Disease, Vesicular rash, Herpangina, Yastimadhu choorna, Guduchi swarasa, Guduchi sattva.