Ayurvedic Approach for Management of Pakshaghat Through Nasya and Shirobasti w.s.r. to Post- Stroke Hemiplegia

Abstract

Pakshaghata is a Vata-predominant neurological disorder described in classical Ayurvedic literature, characterized by weakness or loss of motor or sensory function affecting one half of the body. In contemporary medicine, it correlates with hemiplegia following Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA). Post-stroke hemiplegia often results in persistent motor deficit, functional limitation, and reduced quality of life despite conventional rehabilitation, highlighting the need for integrative therapeutic approaches. This case report presents a 47-year old patient presented with complaints of weakness in the left half of the body, inability to ambulate and lift the left upper limb from six months followed by CVA. No facial deviation was noted. The condition was diagnosed as Vataj Nanatmaj Pakshaghata (post-stroke hemiplegia). The patient was managed with Panchakarma interventions including Sarvanga Abhyanga with Dhanwantara Taila, Nasya with Ksheer Bala Taila, and Shirobasti with Balaashwagandha Taila, as per clinical assessment. Gradual improvement was observed in muscle strength, walking ability, and upper and lower limb mobility over the treatment period thus patient showed significant improvement.