Kerala Journal of Ayurveda https://keralajournalofayurveda.org/index.php/kja <p>The Kerala Journal of Ayurveda, a journal of Ayurveda Specialties is published by the <strong><a href="http://ayushkamya.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kerala Govt Ayurveda College Teachers Association - AKGACAS</a></strong>. The Government Ayurveda College Teachers Association of Kerala or `Akhila Kerala Government Ayurveda College Adhyapaka Sanghatana` was formed on the 21st of April 1980 [Reg: no 215/80]. The online journal was started in 2022. The journal encourages articles on all aspects of ayurveda as well as research collaborations related to ayurveda. The editorial board of the Kerala Journal of Ayurveda is composed of academicians, clinicians, and researchers with expertise in Ayurveda who assist with capacity building and scientific writing.</p> <p><strong>ISSN:</strong> 2583-8555 (online)</p> <p>Approved by <strong>Kerala University of Health Sciences</strong></p> <p><strong>Publishing body: </strong>Kerala Govt Ayurveda College Teachers Association<strong><br />Starting year of online publication</strong>: 2022<br /><strong>Format</strong>: Online<br /><strong>Language</strong>: English<br /><strong>Publication Frequency</strong> : Quarterly</p> <p> </p> <h2>Editorial Team</h2> <p><span style="color: #1e6292;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Managing Editor</span><br /></strong></span><strong>Dr Sivakumar. C. S</strong><br />Professor, Govt Ayurveda College Thiruvananthapuram Kerala &amp; General Secretary AKGACAS<br />Email: sivakumarcs@ayurvedacollege.ac.in</p> <p><span style="color: #1e6292;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Editor in Chief</span><br /></strong></span><strong>Dr P. Y. Ansary</strong><br />Professor, Govt Ayurveda College, Tripunithura Kerala<br />Email: ansary@ayurvedacollege.ac.in</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #1e6292;"><strong>Executive Editor</strong></span></span> <br /><strong>Dr Pradeep. K</strong><br />Associate Professor, Govt Ayurveda College, Tripunithura Kerala <br />Email: pradeep@ayurvedacollege.ac.in</p> <p><span style="color: #1e6292;"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Editorial</span> </strong></span><br /><strong>Dr S. Gopakumar</strong>, Professor, Govt Ayurveda College, Kannur, Kerala [Email: drgopakumar@gack.kerala.gov.in]<br /><strong>Dr Shahul Hameed</strong>, Professor, Govt Ayurveda College, Thiruvananthapuram. Kerala [Email: shahulhameed@ayurvedacollege.ac.in]<br /><strong>Dr Maya Mukundan</strong>, Associate Professor, Govt Ayurveda College Tripunithura Kerala [Email: mayamukundan@ayurvedacollege.ac.in]<br /><strong>Dr Ananda Lakshmy.K N</strong>, Professor, Govt Ayurveda College Thiruvananthapuram Kerala [Email: anandalakshmykn@ayurvedacollege.ac.in]<br /><strong>Dr Sunil John Thykkattil</strong>, Professor, Govt Ayurveda College Thiruvananthapuram Kerala [Email: suniljohn@ayurvedacollege.ac.in] <br /><strong>Dr Mini.S.Muraleedhar</strong>, Associate Professor, Govt Ayurveda College Tripunithura Kerala [Email: drminismuraleedhar@ ayurvedacollege.ac.in]<br /><strong>Dr K.K.Sabu</strong>, Principal Scientist, Biotechnology &amp; Bioinformatics Division, Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, Thiruvananthapuram [Email: sabu@jntbgri.res.in]</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #1e6292; text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Associate Editors<br /></strong></span></span><strong>Dr Rajmohan.V</strong>, Associate Professor, Govt Ayurveda College ,Thiruvananthapuram Kerala [Email: rajmohanv@ayurvedacollege.ac.in]<br /><strong>Dr Sreeraj.S.K</strong>, Associate Professor, Govt Ayurveda College, Thiruvananthapuram Kerala [Email: drsreerajsk@ ayurvedacollege.ac.in]<br /><strong>Dr Vinuraj.S</strong>, Associate Professor, Govt Ayurveda College , Kannur, Kerala [Email: drvinurajs@gack.kerala.gov.in]<br /><strong>Dr Abhilash.M</strong>, Assistant Professor, Govt Ayurveda College , Kannur, Kerala [Email: drabhilashm@gack.kerala.gov.in]<br /><strong>Dr Vijaynath.V</strong>, Assistant Professor, Govt Ayurveda College Tripunithura Kerala [Email: vijaynath@ayurvedacollege.ac.in]<br /><strong>Dr Rajitha.R.Warriar</strong>, Associate Professor, Govt Ayurveda College Tripunithura Kerala [Email: drrajitharr@ ayurvedacollege.ac.in]<br /><strong>Dr Subi.N.H</strong>, Associate Professor, Govt Ayurveda College, Tripunithura Kerala [Email: subinh@ayurvedacollege.ac.in]<br /><strong>Dr Janeesh.J</strong>, Assistant Professor, Govt Ayurveda College, Thiruvananthapuram Kerala [Email: janeeshj@ayurvedacollege.ac.in]</p> <p> </p> Kerala Govt Ayurveda College Teachers Association - AKGACAS en-US Kerala Journal of Ayurveda 2583-8555 An Ayurveda biology approach on the pathogenesis and management of varicose vein https://keralajournalofayurveda.org/index.php/kja/article/view/367 <p>Varicose veins are dilated, twisted veins that usually develop on the legs and feet, affecting both superficial and deep veins. They are commonly seen in adults and can be influenced by factors like aging, genetics, pregnancy, constipation, obesity, and lifestyle. Common symptoms include a feeling of heaviness in the lower limbs, muscle cramps, itching around the swollen veins, and pain either throughout the leg or in the lower portion. While varicose veins are not life-threatening, they can significantly impact daily activities, and the condition tends to worsen over time. Although the exact cause of varicose veins is not fully understood, it is believed to involve factors such as increased pressure in the veins, weakened vascular walls, faulty valves, and genetic predisposition. The symptoms of varicose veins are similar to those of <em>Siragranthi</em>, a condition described in Ayurvedic texts. While modern treatments mainly focus on managing symptoms, Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach, including conservative methods and para-surgical procedures. Para-surgical treatments typically involve <em>Rakthamoksha</em> techniques like <em>Jaloukavacharana </em>(leech therapy) and <em>Siravedha</em> (venesection). This review aims to explore and discuss various aspects of varicose veins and their Ayurvedic management. Though not life-threatening, varicose veins can disrupt daily life, and the condition worsens over time, making it important to conduct a review on this topic.</p> Aswathy V P Abhilash M Copyright (c) 2025 Kerala Journal of Ayurveda 2025-03-30 2025-03-30 4 1 10.55718/kja.367 Cosmetology And Ayurveda – A Review Based Upon the Scope and Utility https://keralajournalofayurveda.org/index.php/kja/article/view/374 <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cosmetology blends art and medical science to enhance aesthetic appeal, helping individuals achieve attractive features that foster psychological comfort and self-confidence. Today, the pursuit of flawless skin has become an obsession, prompting many to experiment with various cosmetic products. Unfortunately, numerous products in this category contain harmful ingredients that may result in health problems. In contrast, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach enriched with natural herbs that detoxify the body from within. This ancient system nurtures the body, mind, and soul, making it increasingly popular in cosmetology for its unique perspective on beauty and its effective safe beauty treatments. Moreover, skin health is closely linked to mental well-being, with stress being a significant factor affecting skin condition. Ayurveda emphasizes reducing stress through practices like yoga and pranayama. Additionally, following <em>Rithucharya, Dinacharya</em>, and <em>pathya Ahara Vihara</em> promotes healthy metabolism, contributing to overall skin health. Ayurvedic texts mention various drug groups, such as <em>Varnya, Kustaghna, Vayasthapak mahakashayas, eladi gana,</em> etc along with medicinal plants like <em>Haridra, Manjistha, Chandana, Amalaki, Bhringaraj,</em> etc which are recommended for enhancing skin and hair health and combating aging. Furthermore, Ayurvedic cosmetology includes <em>shodhana chikithsa</em> (elimination therapy) to eliminate <em>Ama</em> and <em>Bahu dosha</em> and <em>samana chikitsa</em> to balance the <em>tridoshas, agni</em> (digestive fire), and proper nourishment of <em>saptha dhathus.</em></p> Hajara Shamna T Abhilash M Copyright (c) 2025 Kerala Journal of Ayurveda 2025-03-30 2025-03-30 4 1 10.55718/kja.374 Exploring Ayurvedic strategies- An in-depth examination of neurodegenerative diseases. https://keralajournalofayurveda.org/index.php/kja/article/view/359 <p><strong>Abstract</strong></p> <p>Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, represent a class of progressive disorders marked by the gradual decline of neuronal integrity and function, ultimately leading to cognitive and physical impairments. Conventional research has revealed critical molecular mechanisms driving these diseases, such as oxidative stress, protein misfolding and aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and chronic neuroinflammation. Despite advances in understanding these pathways, treatment remains largely symptomatic, focusing on delaying progression rather than addressing the underlying causes.</p> <p>Ayurveda offers a unique perspective on neurodegenerative disease progression. It recognizes the early, subtle disruptions in the body’s internal balance, or <em>dosha </em><em>imbalance</em><em>,</em> which, if unaddressed, manifest as more pronounced systemic effects over time. Ayurvedic therapies aim to restore this balance, support cognitive function, and promote resilience through neuroprotective herbs, dietary modifications, and <em>Rasayana</em> (rejuvenation therapies). These practices are thought to address disease both at the root level and across the body's systems, aligning with modern scientific findings on neuroprotection.</p> <p>This article explores how Ayurvedic principles complement contemporary neuroprotective strategies by addressing early-stage molecular imbalances and providing a framework for preventive care. By focusing on maintaining <em>ojas</em> (vital essence) and balancing <em>doshas</em>, Ayurveda may offer an integrative model for managing neurodegeneration that supports not only symptomatic relief but also long-term resilience in neuronal health.</p> Remya Balan P.Y. Ansary Shincymol V.V Copyright (c) 2025 Kerala Journal of Ayurveda 2025-03-30 2025-03-30 4 1 10.55718/kja.359 Post electric shock neurological complication managed through Ayurveda -A case study https://keralajournalofayurveda.org/index.php/kja/article/view/348 <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Electrical&nbsp;injuries&nbsp;can&nbsp;have&nbsp;an impact on<strong>&nbsp;</strong>the Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). CNS complications are well recognized, causing an increased risk of morbidity, while PNS complications are less predictable after electrical injuries. The clinical sequelae of an electrocution can appear immediately or hours, days or even years later. Neurologic sequelae include loss of consciousness, headache, memory disturbance, seizures, movement disorders, speech impediment and mutism, vertigo, cranial nerve dysfunction, meningitis, autonomic nervous system complications, and peripheral neuropathies. In this case report, a 43 year old female patient came to outpatient department of Govt.Ayurveda College Hospital, Thripunithura,Ernakulam,Kerala with complaints of slurring of speech and difficulty in understanding ,writing and reading., along with weakness, numbness and reduced sensation and power of left upper and lowerlimb <strong>&nbsp;</strong>following electric shock. She had also experienced auditory hallucinations and slight memory loss after the incident. The case was managed with internal medicines and external therapies as per <em>Nanatmaja vatavikara ,Siromarmabhighata and Atithejasam daghdha chikitsa</em> .After two months of ayurvedic management, there was considerable improvement in neurological symptoms. Impaired&nbsp;touch&nbsp;sensation, auditory hallucination and numbness of left upper and lower limb were completely cured. There&nbsp;was&nbsp;a&nbsp;one-grade&nbsp;improvement&nbsp;in&nbsp;muscle&nbsp;power&nbsp;and&nbsp;reflexes. Aphasia was reduced in severity from moderate language related disability to minor difficulties of language..Dementia was &nbsp;also reduced in grading &nbsp;from mild to questionable or very mild. No reversal of symptoms was reported even after one year of treatment. &nbsp;So, ayurvedic physicians can adopt treatment principles of <em>Nanatmaja vatavikara, Siromarmabhighata and Atithejasam</em> <em>dagdha chikitsa</em> in post electric shock neurological complication to get symptomatic relief thus to improve quality of life of affected persons.</p> Harsha Haridas M M Abdul Shukkoor Deepa Jose Copyright (c) 2025 Kerala Journal of Ayurveda 2025-03-30 2025-03-30 4 1 10.55718/kja.348 MANAGEMENT OF POOYALASA (ACUTE DACRYOCYSTITIS) - A CASE REPORT https://keralajournalofayurveda.org/index.php/kja/article/view/375 <p>Dacryocystitis is an inflammatory condition of the lacrimal sac, often presenting with pain, swelling, and purulent discharge, primarily due to nasolacrimal duct obstruction. In Ayurveda, the condition is analogous to <em>Pooyalasa</em>, a chronic and recurrent pathology affecting the lacrimal apparatus. If untreated, it can lead to complications such as abscess formation, fistula, and systemic infections, emphasizing the need for timely and systematic management.</p> <p>This case report discusses a 48-year-old male presenting with a 3-month history of epiphora and purulent discharge from the right eye, progressing to acute painful swelling and associated systemic symptoms. The case was diagnosed as <em>Pooyalasa</em> in the stage of lacrimal abscess formation, based on clinical signs and symptoms. Treatment involved a combination of internal Ayurvedic formulations such as <em>Patoladi Kashaya</em>, <em>Kaisora Guggulu</em>, and <em>Panchatikta Kashaya</em> for their anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory, and wound-healing properties. External therapies included <em>Triphala Kashaya Kshalana</em> for cleansing and <em>Karuthavattu Lepana</em> for localized anti-inflammatory and decongestant effects.</p> <p>The integrated Ayurvedic intervention led to complete resolution of symptoms, healing of the lacrimal abscess, and prevention of recurrence during follow-up. This case underscores the efficacy of Ayurvedic principles in managing <em>Pooyalasa</em> by addressing the pathogenesis holistically, focusing on both local and systemic healing. Further clinical studies are recommended to evaluate the broader applicability of Ayurvedic protocols in the management of lacrimal sac disorders.</p> Parvathy R Warrier Rekhanath K C Balakrishnana VKV Copyright (c) 2025 Kerala Journal of Ayurveda 2025-03-30 2025-03-30 4 1 10.55718/kja.375