Assessment of Vishwadi Kwatha in the Treatment of Kashtartava (Dysmenorrhea): An Open-Label, Single-Group Clinical Trial

Abstract

Kashtartava (dysmenorrhea) is a frequently observed menstrual disorder that significantly interferes with a woman’s daily activities and overall quality of life. The present study was designed to assess the therapeutic efficacy of Vishwadi Kwatha, a relatively underexplored Ayurvedic formulation, in the management of dysmenorrhea. Materials and Methods: A total of 18 patients meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled from the outpatient department of Prasutitantra and Streeroga of the institute, among which 3 participants discontinued the study in table 2. Vishwadi Kwatha was administered orally in a dose of 40ml twice daily before meals for a duration of one month. The outcomes were evaluated based on predefined assessment criteria, including the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain. Patients were followed up for an additional one month. Results: The intervention showed statistically highly significant results (p<0.001) in reducing both the duration (75.60% improvement) and intensity (73.68% reduction) of menstrual pain. Notable relief was also observed in associated symptoms such as Aruchi (93.75% improvement) and Bala-Bhramsha (91.17% improvement). The mean VAS score decreased from 7.467±1.407 before treatment to 2.333±0.9 after completion of therapy. Discussion: Vishwadi Kwatha, described under Shoola Prakarana in Bhaishajyaratnavali as an effective analgesic formulation (Sadya Shoolahara), possesses properties such as Vatanulomana, Dipana-Pachana, Artavajanana, Kaphahara, and Shrotoshodhana. These pharmacodynamic actions may facilitate the proper flow of Artava by normalizing the disturbed movement of Vata and clearing obstructions in bodily channels. Conclusion: The oral administration of Vishwadi Kwatha demonstrated promising efficacy in the management of Kashtartava. However, further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended to validate these findings.