Article: AN INTEGRATIVE CONTROLLED CLINICAL STUDY ON THE THERAPEUTIC ROLE OF AYURVEDA AND YOGA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF AGNIMANDYA (DIGESTIVE IMPAIRMENT)

Article Category: Original Research articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.166216

Pages: 66-72

Author: Nikita Gohel *, Hitesh Vyas, Rinku Gulani, Tanvi Soni

Abstract: Introduction: Agnimandya (digestive impairment) is one of the most prevalent disorders in today’s society which arises from erratic dietary habits and psychosomatic stress. Ayurveda emphasizes the role of Agni (Digestive fire) in maintaining health, while Yoga contributes significantly to psychophysiological regulation. A combined approach may offer a more holistic therapeutic intervention. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of an integrative regimen involving Ayurvedic intervention and Yogic practices in the management of Agnimandya. Settings and Design: A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 30 patients aged 18–60 years who were diagnosed with Agnimandya. Methods and Material: Patients were randomly allocated into two groups. Group A received Shunthi tablets (500 mg, 2 tablets twice daily before food with lukewarm water) along with a structured Yogic protocol. Group B received only Shunthi tablets. The treatment duration was 28 days with follow-up after 15 days. Assessments were based on a predefined scoring system evaluating digestive symptoms, Agni Bala (Digestive capacity), Deha Bala (Physical strength), and Satva Bala (Mental endurance). Results: Group A showed statistically significant improvement in intensity of hunger (p = 0.02), Deha Bala (p = 0.02), and Satva Bala (p < 0.01), compared to Group B. Overall, 26.66% patients in Group A achieved marked improvement versus 6.67% in Group B. Conclusion: Integration of Ayurveda and Yoga yields superior therapeutic benefits in managing Agnimandya, particularly when psychological etiologies are involved. This integrative model offers a promising holistic approach to digestive health.

Keyword: Agnimandya, Ayurveda, Yoga, Shunthi, Integrative medicine