Article: GRAHANI WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS): A SINGLE CASE STUDY

Article Category: Case Reports

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.174132

Pages: 37-40

Author: A. Suvase *, P. Muneshwar, S. Soman

Abstract: Background: Grahani Roga, described in classical Ayurvedic texts, is a functional disorder of the Annavaha Srotas arising primarily from Agnimandya (diminished digestive fire). Its clinical manifestations — alternating bowel habits, abdominal pain, bloating, mucus in stools and incomplete evacuation — closely parallel those of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) as defined in contemporary gastroenterology. Case Presentation: A 41-year-old male industrial worker with rotating shift duties presented to the Kayachikitsa OPD of SST Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya with an 8-month history of abdominal pain, bloating, alternating constipation and diarrhoea (Muhurbaddha–Muhurshithila), mucus in stools and a persistent sense of incomplete evacuation (Krute api Akrut Sangya). Relevant Nidana included Guru-Abhishyandi Ahara (curd-marinated meat, cream-rich dishes, deep-fried snacks), Vishama Ashana, Ratrijagara and chronic occupational stress. Investigations ruled out organic pathology; the condition was diagnosed as Grahani Roga (VataKapha predominant, Amaja) correlating with IBS-Mixed type (IBS-M) by Rome IV criteria. Intervention: A structured 45-day Ayurvedic protocol was administered comprising Deepana-Pachana with medicated Takra (Jeeraka, Dhanyaka, Saindhava), Grahani-balya and Vatashamaka churnas (Triphala, Shunthi, Jeeraka, Dhanyaka, Hingu; Musta, Patha, Dhamasa, Patola, Kutaja), and Yoga Basti — Mocharasa Taila Anuvasana and Dashamoola Kwatha Niruha — initiated from Day 8. Outcome: By day 45, the patient achieved marked improvement in stool consistency, resolution of mucus, significant reduction in abdominal pain and bloating, normalisation of appetite and enhanced functional capacity. Stool examination and ultrasonography confirmed clinical recovery. Conclusion: This case demonstrates that a Grahani-oriented Ayurvedic regimen integrating Agnideepana, Amapachana, Grahanibalya and Yoga Basti can offer effective, sustained relief in IBS-M and warrants validation through controlled clinical trials.

Keyword: Grahani, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, IBS-Mixed, Yoga Basti, Takra, Kutaja, Agnimandya, Ayurveda