Role of ayurvedic medicines in the management of Pandu Roga: A Case study

Abstract

In Ayurvedic classical texts, the description of Pandu is available in three forms i.e, Pandu as a disease, Pandu as a complication, and Pandu as a sign of certain diseases. Panduroga is a condition where Pitta pradhan tridoshas affect the Dhatus causing deterioration of Varna and Bala, leading to Twak Vaivarnya or Panduta. It is characterised by changes in the skin colour to white (Shweta), yellowish (Peeta), greenish (Harita) etc. which is one of the “Varnopalakshita Roga" i.e a disease characterised by the change in the colour. The clinical condition of Pandu roga in Ayurveda resembles the anemia describe in modern medical science due to resemblance in the clinical signs & symptoms. Anemia is a condition presenting with depletion of Haemoglobin concentration below normal values or hematocrit or RBC in the blood. Materials and Methods: Two medicine Darvyadi loha and Drakshadi avaleha were selected to treat patient of pandu roga. Case Report: A 34-year-old female patient came with complaints of Aruchi (loss of appetite), Panduta (pallor), Dourbalya (weakness), Hrid spandanam (palpitation), Pindikodvestan (leg cramps) and Haemoglobin level of 8.5 gm/dl visited to OPD of CSMSS Ayurved Rugnalaya. She was relieved from the symptoms and a raise of Hb level upto 11.4 gm/dl after the treatment.She was treated for 2 months with two follow ups of 1 month ach. Discussion: Pandu roga can be effectively managed by Ayurvedic haematinic drugs which are palatable, economically feasible. In this study the follow ups showed gradual improvement in the condition. Conclusion: Ayurvedic medicines have great potential in treating deficiency conditions as established in the study.