Evolutionary clinico-experimental study of Gridhrasi (Sciatica) and its therapeutic management through Vishtinduka vati and Vishnu tail

Abstract

Background: One of the Vata-Nanatmaja Vyadhis mentioned in Ayurveda, Gridhrasi can be identified by its cardinal symptoms, which range from the kaṭipradesha (lumbar region) to the pada (foot). These symptoms include ruk (pain), stambha (stiffness), toda (pricking pain), supti (numbness), and spandana (twitching). It is characterized by radiating pain, stiffness, and numbness that travels from the hip to the foot and is closely related to sciatica in modern medicine. Vatahara therapy is the primary treatment recommended by Ayurveda.

Aim: The purpose of this study is to assess the therapeutic effectiveness of Matra Basti and Vishṭinduka Vati as well as Vishnu Taila in the treatment of Gridhrasi (Sciatica).

Material and methods: For 60 days, 30 patients with Gridhrasi received treatment with Vishtinduka Vati (125 mg twice daily) and Matra Basti of Vishnu Taila (50 ml once daily). Using a 0–3 grading scale, the assessment was based on relief in Ruk (pain), Stambha (stiffness), Toda (pricking pain), Supti (numbness), and Spandana (twitching). To evaluate the data, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used.

Result: The results showed that all of the main symptoms were significantly improved (p < 0.001). Ruk and Stambha experienced the greatest alleviation (78.8% and 72.2%, respectively), followed by Toda (63.1%) and Supti (54.2%). No negative consequences were noted.

Conclusion: In summary, the combination of Vishṭinduka Vati and Matra Basti of Vishnu Taila is a safe, cost-effective, and efficient Ayurvedic treatment for Gridhrasi (Sciatica), offering noticeable symptomatic and functional relief.