Ayurveda Management of Allergic Rhinitis: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

BackgroundAllergic rhinitis (AR) is the inflammation of the membranes lining the nose due to allergen exposure and is characterized by sneezing, nasal congestion, itching of the nose, or postnasal discharge. The prevalence varies worldwide, perhaps due to the geographic and aeroallergen differences, with 10% to 30% of the world’s population experiencing AR. In this study, Anu Taila Nasya, Naradiya Laxmivilas Rasa, and Shirishadi Kwath will be compared to a fluticasone nasal spray. ObjectiveThe primary aim is to assess the efficacy of Ayurvedic management for AR (or vataja pratishyaya) by comparing it to a conventional control group. The secondary aims are to determine the mean change in the nasal endoscopy index and the mean change in the laboratory tests. MethodsThis ongoing study is an open-label randomized controlled interventional trial, with a sample size of 90 both in the trial and standard control group (including dropouts, 20%), and will be carried out for 24 months. Participants in the trial group will receive Ayurvedic treatment, that is, Anu Taila Nasya (6 drops in each nostril for 7 days for 3 consecutive weeks), Naradiya Laxmivilas Rasa (250 mg twice per day), and Shirishadi Kwath (40 ml twice per day for 45 days). The participants in the control group will receive a fluticasone propionate nasal spray (2 sprays once per day for 45 days). The primary outcome will include the mean change in the Control of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Test score, and the secondary outcomes will include the mean change in the nasal endoscopy index (assessment of nasal membrane color, pale or hyperemia; rhinorrhea, watery or yellow; and inferior turbinate swelling, hypertrophy) and the mean change in the laboratory tests. ResultsAs of May 2024, 72 patients have been enrolled in both groups. Data analysis should be completed by February 2025. The study will be reported following standard guidelines for reporting randomized controlled trials. Clinical results will be disseminated through conferences and peer-reviewed publication in a relevant journal. ConclusionsThe Ayurvedic approach could be an evidence-based therapeutic tactic for the management of AR. Trial RegistrationClinical Trials Registry India CTRI/2023/06/053395; https://tinyurl.com/564d2zz8 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)DERR1-10.2196/56063