Role of Madhutailik basti and Shaman Section chikitsa in the Management of Acute on Chronic Pancreatitis: A Case Report

Abstract

Chronic pancreatitis is a condition characterised by persistent inflammation of the pancreas, leading to permanent damage and loss of its exocrine and endocrine functions. Clinical symptoms of the disease include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, steatorrhoea, indigestion, and weight loss. In Ayurveda, it can be correlated with Grahani dosha, a disorder of the duodenum and gut. Mandagni, which is the hypo-functioning of Agni, is considered the root cause of Grahani dosha and is addressed through various treatment modalities in Ayurveda. Hereby, the authors present a case report of 40-year-old male diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis presented with severe pain in the epigastric and left hypochondriac region of the abdomen, decreased appetite, nausea, and constipation for five years. After three years of conservative treatment and unsuccessful advice to undergo Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), the patient sought Ayurvedic treatment. The treatment involved Shodhan (purificatory) and Shamana (palliative) approaches, including Vata pitta shamaka kriya, Mridu virechana (mild purgation), and the use of Yakrutottejaka (hepato stimulant), Pramehaghna (pancreas protecting), and Rasayana (rejuvenating) formulations. Within four months, the patient experienced a significant improvement, with total remission of symptoms and a notable reduction in objective criteria such as serum lipase and serum amylase levels. The present case report suggests that Ayurvedic modalities can be effective in treating chronic pancreatitis. However, to draw definitive conclusions, further research with extensive follow-up and a larger sample size is necessary.

Keywords

• endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
• grahani
• purification therapies