An Open Randomised Comparative Clinical Study to Evaluate the Effect of Ekavimshatika Guggulu and Vishwadi Guggulu with Agnikarma in Management of Gridhrasi

Abstract

Gridhrasi is one of the eighty Nanatmaja Vatavyadhis described in Ayurveda. According to Acharya Charaka, it is characterized by Stambha (stiffness), Ruka (pain), Toda (pricking sensation), and Spandana (twitching) affecting the buttock, lower back, thigh, knee, calf, and foot. In Vata-Kaphaja Gridhrasi, symptoms such as Gaurava (heaviness), Aruchi (loss of appetite), and Tandra (drowsiness) are also present. It resembles sciatica and significantly affects daily activities. Aim: To evaluate comparative effect of Ekavimshatika Guggulu with Agnikarma and Vishwadi Guggulu with Agnikarma in subjects of Gridhrasi. Methodology: An open randomized comparative clinical study was conducted on 60 patients, divided into two groups of 30 each. Group A received Vishwadi Guggulu with Agnikarma, while Group B received Ekavimshatika Guggulu with Agnikarma. Clinical parameters were assessed before and after treatment and during follow-up. Results: Data were analyzed using Friedman’s Test, Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, and Mann-Whitney U Test. Statistical significance was considered at p<0.05. Conclusion: Both treatment protocols were effective in managing Gridhrasi. However, Ekavimshatika Guggulu with Agnikarma showed superior improvement in symptoms such as Ruka, Stambha, and Toda, making it comparatively more effective than Vishwadi Guggulu with Agnikarma.