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  2. Volume 2 | Issue 1 [January - March]
  3. ROLE OF PANCHAKARMA IN NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS: AN EVIDENCE-BASED REVIEW
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Dr. Abhay Gandhi

ROLE OF PANCHAKARMA IN NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS: AN EVIDENCE-BASED REVIEW

Introduction: Neurological disorders, including stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and neuropathies, remain significant global health challenges. Conventional management often provides symptomatic relief but fails to reverse underlying pathophysiological changes. Ayurveda describes Panchakarma as a holistic detoxification and rejuvenation approach, with potential applications in neurorehabilitation. Methods: A comprehensive review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya) alongside modern biomedical databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Literature published between 2000–2024 was included. Both experimental and clinical studies evaluating Panchakarma therapies (Basti, Nasya, Vamana, Virechana, Raktamokshana) in neurological conditions were reviewed. Inclusion criteria comprised randomized controlled trials, observational studies, animal models, and review papers. Exclusion criteria involved non-peer-reviewed sources and studies with insufficient methodology. Results: Evidence suggests that Panchakarma therapies enhance neuroprotection, improve circulation, reduce neuroinflammation, and modulate neurotransmitter activity. Basti Karma is highly effective in Vata-related disorders such as neuropathies, paralysis, and degenerative diseases. Nasya shows promise in cognitive decline, migraine, and sinus-related neurological conditions. Virechana aids in Pitta-related disorders, while Raktamokshana benefits vascular headaches and localized inflammatory neuropathies. Modern research indicates Panchakarma may enhance neuroplasticity and reduce oxidative stress. Discussion: Comparative analysis highlights Ayurveda’s preventive and restorative approach, which complements modern neurological care. Despite promising findings, gaps remain in standardized protocols, large-scale randomized trials, and objective neuroimaging-based outcomes. Conclusion: Panchakarma provides a promising integrative framework for neurological disorders, addressing both systemic detoxification and neuroregeneration. Further evidence-based clinical research is essential to validate its role in mainstream neurotherapeutics.

 

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Basti, Neurological disorders, Panchakarma, Neurorehabilitation