Introduction: Vatarakta, a condition described in Ayurveda, corresponds to gouty arthritis in modern medicine and is characterized by pain, swelling, redness, and restricted joint movement due to the vitiation of Vata and Rakta Doshas. This case study highlights the Ayurvedic management of Uttana Vatarakta using Basti (medicated enema) and Parisheka (therapeutic pouring of medicated decoctions) as the main line of treatment.
Case Presentation: A 35-year-old male patient with a history of dietary irregularities, sedentary lifestyle, and elevated serum uric acid levels presented with acute pain, swelling, and redness in the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The treatment protocol included Ksheera Basti (medicated enema with milk-based decoction) for Vata pacification and Parisheka with Godhana Ark and Guduchi Kashaya for local anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, Sthanika Abhyanga and Janu Upnaha in bilateral knee joints for mobility. Internal administration of herbal formulations like Guduchi Kashaya and Gokshuradi Guggulu was provided.
Results: Over four weeks, the patient experienced substantial relief in symptoms, including reduced joint pain, swelling, and redness. Joint mobility improved, and serum uric acid levels decreased from 8.2 mg/dL to 6.4 mg/dL. The combined effect of Basti, Parisheka and Upanha therapies significantly reduced systemic and localized inflammation without any adverse effects .
Conclusion: The integrative Ayurvedic approach of using Basti and Parisheka as primary therapies proved effective in managing Uttana Vatarakta. This treatment not only alleviated symptoms but also addressed the root cause by pacifying Vata and Rakta Doshas. Further studies are recommended to establish standardized protocols for the Ayurvedic management of gouty arthritis.