Abstract

Background:Kasa is described in Ayurveda as an independent disease as well as a manifestation of other disorders. Vataja Kasa is characterized predominantly by Vata involvement and may present with Shushka Kasa, Mukhashushkata, Swarabheda, Daurbalya and pain involving the Ura, Parshva or Shira. Bharangyadi Avaleha is a classical Leha preparation used in the author's postgraduate work for Vataja Kasa. Aim: To review the Ayurvedic rationale and probable mode of action of Bharangyadi Avaleha in Vataja Kasa. Materials and Methods: Classical Ayurvedic references and the author's postgraduate dissertation concerning Vataja Kasa, Bharangyadi Avaleha and its pharmacodynamic interpretation were reviewed. Selected contemporary scientific literature on Bharangi (Clerodendrum serratum) and Bharangyadi preparations was also considered. Discussion: The formulation described in the dissertation contains Bharangi, Draksha, Shati, Karkatashringi/Shrungi, Pippali and Shunthi, prepared as an Avaleha. The conceptual action of the formulation is discussed through Dosha-prashamana, Deepana-Pachana, Vatanulomana and Kasahara/Shwasahara actions. The formulation combines drugs directed toward Vata-Kapha involvement and respiratory manifestations, while the Madhura component of the Leha preparation is discussed as a counterbalance to the Ruksha qualities of several ingredients. Contemporary studies of C. serratum report traditional respiratory use and experimental anti- asthmatic, mast-cell-stabilizing, anti-allergic and anti- inflammatory activities. A separate experimental study has also reported antihistaminic, mast-cell-stabilizing and bronchodilator activity for a polyherbal Bharangyadi preparation, although its composition differs from the formulation in the present dissertation. Conclusion: Bharangyadi Avaleha has a coherent Ayurvedic conceptual basis for Vataja Kasa through combined effects directed toward Dosha imbalance, Agni, Vata movement and respiratory manifestations. The available modern evidence is supportive at the experimental level, while direct clinical evidence for the complete classical formulation remains limited. Standardized clinical studies are required.