Abstract

*Dr. Raj Kishor Verma, Dr. Mahendra Prasad Singh, Dr. Surendra Kumar and Dr. Raman Ranjan

ABSTRACT

The fundamental principle of Ayurveda states that "imbalances in the basic constituents of the body are the root cause of various diseases." This highlights the importance of maintaining balance among the body's fundamental elements (Sharira) as a key to achieving good health and remaining disease-free. Ayurvedic remedies and therapies are highly effective in maintaining and restoring this equilibrium. Vatarakta, a chronic condition, is marked by joint and body pain, stiffness, and swelling. It results from disturbances in Vatadosha and Raktadhatu, where aggravated Vata is obstructed by vitiated Rakta, leading to further aggravation of Vata Dosha. Vatarakta manifests in two stages: Uttana and Gambhira. Uttana Vatarakta primarily affects the Twacha (skin) and Mamsadhatu (muscle tissue), while Gambhira Vatarakta predominantly involves the Asthi (bones) and Majja Dhatu (bone marrow). Nidan Panchak is a comprehensive and essential method in Ayurveda for diagnosing diseases, identifying their causes, and determining prognosis. It comprises five components: Nidan (cause), Purvarupa (prodromal symptoms), Rupa (main symptoms), Upshaya (relieving factors), and Samprapti (pathogenesis). Each component provides critical insights for physicians to understand disease progression and enables early intervention. In modern times, lifestyle changes not only disrupt healthy dietary habits (Aahar) but also daily routines (Vihara). A sedentary lifestyle, mental stress, consumption of non-vegetarian and high-protein diets, excessive alcohol intake, and similar factors significantly contribute to the acute exacerbation of Vatarakta. The etiological factors, pathology, and clinical manifestations of gouty arthritis closely resemble those of Vatarakta.